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Baggage

The Baggage Podcast

Baggage brings together the personal, reflective storytelling of "This American Life" with the conversational, often humorous vibe of "SmartLess," delivering compelling, raw narratives from people from all walks of life, offering an intimate and honest look into the weight we carry. Led by an unlikely foursome—a doctor, a prosecutor, a comedian, and a writer—the hosts bring their vastly different backgrounds to the table, unpacking these stories with a unique blend of empathy, wit, and curiosity.

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.

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  • 24 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 45 min
  • English

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Episodes 24

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  • #49
    Dec 23, 2025 · 42 min

    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.

  • #48
    Dec 9, 2025 · 59 min

    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.

  • #47
    Nov 25, 2025 · 29 min

    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.

  • #46
    Nov 11, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min

    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.

Showing 21–24 of 24 episodes