Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story

ENTROPY MEDIA
  • 4.8 (62)
  • TRUE CRIME
  • WEEKLY SERIES
Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story
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It was a dream-turned-nightmare, for former American football star, Wendell Brown when he began coaching his beloved sport to Chinese citizens. After being attacked by multiple men, in a Yuzhong District nightclub, the Detroit legend, is the one who finds himself in one of the harshest prisons in China, facing a nearly impossible battle against a legal system with a 99% conviction rate. Yet, hope arises in the most unexpected form: a group of strangers from around the world who, using the WeChat app, come together to form “Team Wendell.” Scattered across the globe, they must fight against all odds to bring the American home before more harm finds him. Behind bars in one of China's harshest prisons, Wendell is the only Black man, American, and foreigner in a cell with 30 men. Isolated and targeted, he must survive not just the horrid conditions but also the danger from fellow prisoners. To survive, Wendell and his team need the perfect game plan.   Binge the full season of "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story" now. Available wherever you listen to podcasts! A production of Entropy Media.

  1. EPISODE 1

    Bring Home Wendell Brown | Episode 1

    In the dead of night, Wendell Brown—a former American football coach from Detroit—finds himself surrounded by police officers in a foreign land, unsure of what's happening or where he's being taken. He recounts his terrifying first encounter with the Chinese legal system after a night out in Chongqing goes horribly wrong. As he’s thrown into a cell, unable to contact anyone or speak the language, Wendell’s nightmare begins. Host Matt Liston introduces us to Wendell's story, setting the stage for a heart-wrenching battle for justice in a world where the odds are stacked against him. This is the start of a journey that will take us from the streets of China to the halls of power in Washington, D.C., as Wendell’s family fights to bring him home. "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story" is an Entropy Media production. Catch new episodes every Wednesday, wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    46 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Locked Up Abroad | Episode 2

    Wendell recounts the terrifying moments leading up to his arrest in Chongqing, China. What began as a scuffle at a bar quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation as an angry mob pursued Wendell through the streets. Seeking refuge, he turned to the police for help, only to be handcuffed and left defenseless against the crowd's wrath. Wendell's nightmare only deepens as he's thrown into a brutal Chinese prison system, facing unimaginable conditions and isolation, with no contact with his family or access to legal help. Back home in the U.S., Wendell’s loved ones struggle to comprehend the gravity of his situation as they fight to bring him home. "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story" is an Entropy Media production. Catch new episodes every Wednesday, wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    43 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    99% | Episode 3

    On a freezing Detroit evening in 2002, Wendell Brown led his high school football team to victory, showcasing the relentless drive that would define his journey. Two decades later, that same determination is tested as Wendell, now a football coach in China, finds himself imprisoned on disputed charges. This episode explores Wendell's rise in Detroit’s East Side, the unwavering support of his family, and the complexities of seeking justice in a foreign land. We hear exclusive insights from Wendell's lawyer as well as never-before-seen surveillance footage, as the fight to bring Wendell home intensifies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    45 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    The Footage | Episode 4

    A recent letter from Wendell exposes the emotional toll of enduring nearly three years without a verdict. New information is discovered about the night that led to his arrest, including key surveillance footage that casts doubt on the charges against him. Wendell’s story highlights the deep flaws in the justice system and the determined efforts to secure his freedom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    37 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    The Gamechanger | Episode 5

    Wendell recounts the dehumanizing conditions in detention, where basic necessities like haircuts were stripped of dignity, and survival became a daily struggle. As he prepares for his first trial, Wendell's hope dwindles when his own lawyer seems to be working against him, urging him to plead guilty despite his innocence. Wendell's frustration and helplessness grow as he realizes the legal representation his family fought so hard to secure is far from trustworthy. But just as Wendell begins to lose hope, a new lawyer enters the scene, reigniting his belief that he could prove his innocence. Back in the United States, Wendell's supporters ramp up efforts to raise awareness, facing unexpected challenges in garnering media attention. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    37 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    The Verdict | Episode 6

    Wendell Brown's family and friends anxiously await the verdict in his Chinese court case. While Sheree attends the hearing in China, Antoinette and a house full of loved ones in Detroit prepare for what they hope will be Wendell’s release after two years of imprisonment. As the family processes some heartbreaking news about his sentencing, feelings of frustration and disbelief take over, raising questions about justice, privilege, and the unequal treatment Wendell has faced. Despite the crushing outcome, his family remains determined to continue their fight, holding onto hope for his eventual release. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    34 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    Let's Make a Deal | Episode 7

    In August of 2019, a new possibility emerges: Wendell might be able to buy his freedom with a payment to the victim. With Sophia negotiating in China, Wendell’s family and friends scramble to raise the necessary funds. From GoFundMe efforts to help from Ball State alumni like Jason Whitlock, hope rises—but so do the financial demands. Will this deal finally bring Wendell home, or are there more obstacles ahead? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    43 min

  8. EPISODE 8

    Home | Episode 8 (Season Finale)

    After spending three years in a Chinese prison, Wendell finally returns home. As he reunites with his family and friends, the raw moments of joy and bittersweet reflections unfold, from the tense wait at LAX to the triumphant welcome in Detroit. It’s a powerful story of resilience, community support, and an unbreakable spirit, showcasing the faith, love, and determination that helped Wendell rebuild his life against all odds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    52 min

  9. EPISODE 9 BONUS

    BONUS Interview: Wendell reflects on his journey

    In this special bonus episode of "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story", Wendell Brown sits down with Matt Liston for an interview to reflect on his time since his release from Chinese prison. He talks about how he felt hearing his story retold in the podcast, the overwhelming support from his team and family, and the lessons learned from his time in prison. Wendell also shares updates on his personal growth, his son's achievements, and the profound gratitude he feels for being home just before the onset of COVID-19. Throughout, Wendell's faith and resilience shine as he continues to rebuild his life and contribute to his community. For more exclusive bonus episodes of "Game Plan", check out our ENTROPY UNLIMITED channel on Apple Podcasts, where you can find even more bonus content along with ad-free episodes across all of our series! Click the link below to subscribe for a 7-day free trial... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/entropy-media/id6503914400 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 7m

  10. EPISODE 10 BONUS • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    BONUS: Erma Brown Interview

    This bonus interview with Erma Brown, Wendell's grandmother, offers a touching glimpse into their close relationship. She reflects on Wendell’s kind nature, his influence on family, and the many summers he spent with her. Irma shares the pain of his detention in China, emphasizing her faith and hope for his eventual return. She dreams of the day they are reunited, with tears of joy and a warm family welcome

    12 min

  11. EPISODE 11 BONUS • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    BONUS: Antionette Interview

    This bonus interview with Wendell's mother, Antoinette, offers a candid and emotional glimpse into her son’s life and character. She shares fond memories of Wendell’s generosity and helpfulness from a young age, his academic and athletic achievements, and his strong bond with family. The conversation also delves into the family's pain and frustration with Wendell’s detention in China, highlighting the challenges they face in bringing him home. Antoinette's deep love for her son and unwavering hope for his return are evident as she reflects on the emotional toll of the situation, while remaining confident in Wendell’s strength and faith.

    33 min

  12. EPISODE 12 BONUS • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    BONUS: Sophia Interview

    This bonus interview with Sophia, Wendell Brown's Chinese lawyer, provides insights into the complexities of his case. Sophia discusses how Wendell’s previous lawyer struggled to communicate effectively, leaving him feeling helpless. She highlights the weak evidence presented by the prosecution, including unclear video footage and unreliable witness accounts. Despite Wendell’s prolonged detention, Sophia commends his resilience and determination to maintain his innocence.

    41 min
See All Season 1 (12)

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About

It was a dream-turned-nightmare, for former American football star, Wendell Brown when he began coaching his beloved sport to Chinese citizens. After being attacked by multiple men, in a Yuzhong District nightclub, the Detroit legend, is the one who finds himself in one of the harshest prisons in China, facing a nearly impossible battle against a legal system with a 99% conviction rate. Yet, hope arises in the most unexpected form: a group of strangers from around the world who, using the WeChat app, come together to form “Team Wendell.” Scattered across the globe, they must fight against all odds to bring the American home before more harm finds him. Behind bars in one of China's harshest prisons, Wendell is the only Black man, American, and foreigner in a cell with 30 men. Isolated and targeted, he must survive not just the horrid conditions but also the danger from fellow prisoners. To survive, Wendell and his team need the perfect game plan.   Binge the full season of "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story" now. Available wherever you listen to podcasts! A production of Entropy Media.

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