Kind World

Kind World presents: "Beyond All Repair," a new podcast about an unsolved murder and a woman who wasn’t believed Mar 09, 2024

Introducing Beyond All Repair, a new WBUR podcast hosted by Amory Sivertson. This series tells the story of a murder, but also the woman who was accused of that murder, Sophia.

Sophia was newly married and six months pregnant when she was charged with murdering her mother-in-law in 2002. She gave birth to a son in jail that she hasn’t seen since, and for the last three years, she’s been telling me her story in hopes of getting justice for her mother-in-law, of having a chance of meeting her son, and of finally being believed.

This is the first chapter of Beyond All Repair. Episode 2 is already waiting for you. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Introducing ‘The Gun Machine’, a podcast about how America was forged by the gun industry Oct 06, 2023

Produced by WBUR, Boston’s NPR, in partnership with The Trace, The Gun Machine looks into the past to bring you a story that most Americans never learned in history class: how early partnerships between mad scientist gunsmiths and a fledgling U.S. government created the gun industry in the Northeast, and how that industry has been partners with the government ever since.

Host Alain Stephens examines how this 250-year relationship underpins all Americans’ interactions with guns — including our failures in dealing with the fallout of gun violence.

The Gun Machine episodes drop every Wednesday, starting Oct. 4, 2023. Listen and follow on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts.

https://link.chtbl.com/thegunmachine

Kind World introduces Violation, a new podcast about who pulls the levers of power in the justice system Mar 15, 2023

We want to share a first listen of a new podcast we're working on at WBUR.

Violation tells the story of two families bound together by an unthinkable crime. It explores America's opaque parole system and asks: How much time in prison is enough? Who gets to decide? And, when someone commits a terrible crime, what does redemption look like?

Listen to the trailer and if you like what you hear, head over to the Violation feed wherever you get your podcasts and hit subscribe so you'll get new episodes when they drop, beginning March 22.

Kind World Presents: Endless Thread's look into "Aunties:" abortion access advocates of Reddit Jul 26, 2022

Kind World presents Endless Thread's deep dive into Reddit's Auntie Network, an online community "dedicated to providing information and resources to those in need of abortion services." It has been inundated with new members since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was leaked in early May. Community members can offer rides, lodging, and emotional support for anyone seeking an abortion — especially when crossing state lines.

Kind World Presents: Endless Thread's look into the life and legacy of Bill Mays Nov 22, 2021

Remember those OxiClean commercials with the in-your-face pitchman? That was Billy Mays. Mays died years ago, but he’s lived on in meme form. Why? We ask his son Billy Mays III, his biggest frenemy, and a host of others to explain why someone who was squarely in the age of television continues to appear online in strange and provocative ways. It’s the story of an American staple whose consumerist existence belies a personality that, in the end, was surprisingly wholesome.

Kind World Presents: Selena And Me Jan 19, 2021

Today, we present the very first episode of Anything for Selena, a new podcast from WBUR and Futuro Studios.

Growing up along the US-Mexico border, Maria Garcia felt torn between her two identities as Mexican and American. But then, something changed her life. She discovered Selena — the Mexican-American pop icon who proved she didn’t have to choose. In the premiere episode of “Anything for Selena,” host Maria Garcia explores how Selena helped Maria find her own place in the world.

Kind World Presents: Anything For Selena Oct 29, 2020

Listen to the trailer for "Anything For Selena," a new podcast from WBUR and Futuro Studios coming in January 2021. Subscribe now so you don't miss it!

About The Show:

On March 31, 1995, nine-year-old Maria Garcia came home to find her mother glued to the TV, tears rolling down her rosy cheeks. The phone kept ringing. Relatives in Mexico and the States wanted to know if Maria’s family was watching, too. American networks and Mexican programming aired the same top story. Selena Quintanilla, the Grammy-winning ascending Mexican American popstar had been killed — swiftly, violently — by the president of her fan club.

The story shook the country and changed Maria’s life.

In "Anything For Selena," host Maria Garcia goes on an intimate, revelatory quest to understand how Selena has become a potent symbol for tensions around race, class and body politics in the United States.

The series weaves Maria’s personal story as a queer, first-generation Mexican immigrant with cultural analysis, history and politics to explore how, 25 years after her death, Selena remains an unparalleled vessel for understanding Latino identity and American belonging.

Kind World Presents: Port Of Entry Oct 23, 2020

The perception that the U.S.-Mexico border’s been effectively sealed shut because of the pandemic is wrong. Lots of people are still crossing. Actually, the biggest, most dramatic change in who can’t cross right now; you’re not going to find those folks at the official ports of entry. Instead, you have to look inside migrant shelters, at the refugees who can’t seek asylum in the U.S. right now and are instead stuck in border towns. So that's what we do today. We talk to a migrant stuck at the border in Tijuana, and a doctor from Los Angeles who's trying to help.

About The Show:

“Port Of Entry” is about the unexplored subcultures, creativity and struggles at the U.S.-Mexico border. The KPBS podcast tells personal stories from people whose lives are shaped by the tension reverberating around the wall. This is a show for border babies, urban explorers or those who wonder what happens when two cultures are both separated and intertwined.

Kind World Says Goodbye Jul 30, 2020

Listen in as five Kind World producers discuss how the show has grown and evolved in its seven-year run.

Giving Can Make Us Happier Jul 27, 2020

Science says giving can make us happier than having more money. Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Dunn suggests ways to rethink the way we give in order to make it feel like a source of joy rather than an obligation.

Encore: A Teacher's Aid Jul 23, 2020

When Jenn Carson found out her father was a serial killer, she began to think she was doomed to follow a dark path. But then she met a teacher who helped her change her life forever through simple acts of kindness

The Surprising Benefits Of Raising Kind Kids Jul 20, 2020

Adam Grant, organizational psychologist at UPenn, says kids who are taught kindness and caring at an earlier age may be more likely to succeed as adults.

Encore: A Connecting Flight Jul 17, 2020

A chance meeting between a school volunteer and a Marine leads to a slew of unexpected acts of kindness.

Plus, how small gifts and tokens from neighbors helped a mother and daughter as the young girl struggled with a mysterious illness.

Feeling Lonely? You're Not Alone. Jul 13, 2020

Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy shares with us the startling effects of chronic loneliness and how we can combat this public health crisis -- even in a socially distant world.

Encore: Love For The Least Loved Jul 09, 2020

A man confronts his dark past and a random act of kindness that led to a 20-year philosophy.

Have More Meaningful Gatherings, Even During COVID Jul 06, 2020

Priya Parker is an expert on gatherings. She gives us tips on creating deeper social bonds and more collective meaning through our get-togethers.

A Chosen Family Jul 02, 2020

Six years after their story, "A Second Mother To Me," originally aired on Kind World, we catch up with Michael Tambone and Frances Schmitz to talk about the importance and power of a "chosen family."

Kindness In Your World Jun 29, 2020

Our listeners share profound acts of kindness they've experienced throughout their lives, including how kind acts propelled a woman out of homelessness.

Encore: Stuck In Transit Jun 25, 2020

A man became stuck at an airport for 7 months and his only source of hope was a determined stranger. PLUS how a small town helped a family of refugees rebuild their chocolate empire.

A Serving Of Compassion Jun 22, 2020

Irene Li, the celebrated chef of Boston's Mei Mei, discusses her commitment to helping mom-and-pop restaurants and immigrant families survive during the pandemic.

Plus, how a longtime customer helped a Los Angeles restaurant owner keep his business afloat as his sales plummet due to coronavirus.

Encore: The Rhythm Within Jun 18, 2020

A drumming teacher steps in and helps a troubled young immigrant find his identity in his new reality. Plus, how kindness and generosity in his early adulthood helped High Point University President Nido Qubein find strength and success.

Building A Village Jun 16, 2020

A Connecticut man starts a donation challenge to feed local families in need during the coronavirus pandemic.

Plus, a conversation with activist and authors Mia Birdsong on how we can build stronger, healthier and more equitable communities.

Walk With Shawn Jun 08, 2020

Shawn Dromgoole, a 29-year-old black man, said he was afraid to walk in his gentrifying Nashville neighborhood. Then came a response he never expected.

Playlist: The Kindness Of Healthcare Workers Jun 01, 2020

Healthcare workers are in the spotlight these days and getting recognized for their sacrifices during the pandemic. But for so many of them, that recognition is long overdue. Here are three of our favorite Kind World stories about how healthcare workers have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help their patients in deeply compassionate ways.

A Moment Of Kindness From Will May 28, 2020

Will Bloemendaal, of Grand Rapids, Mich., tells us about witnessing a small but powerful act of integrity and kindness while on the bus.

More Than A Letter May 22, 2020

Why a heartfelt thank-you letter from an 11-year-old to her mail carrier resonated with people across the country.

A Moment Of Kindness From Jessie May 21, 2020

Jessie Spellman, of New York, N.Y., tells us about an emotional and unforgettable birthday surprise.

Bringing Generations Closer Together May 18, 2020

Stories of kindness that span across different generations.

A Moment Of Kindness From Anna May 14, 2020

Anna Baumgaertner, of Davie, Fla., tells us about a student performance that she calls the highlight of her year.

How To Find Peace In A Pandemic May 11, 2020

Dr. Laurie Santos, professor of psychologist at Yale University and host of the podcast, The Happiness Lab, gives us advice on practices we can all adopt as we cope with the anxiety of the coronavirus crisis.

A Moment Of Kindness From Carly May 07, 2020

Carly Shields, of Salt Lake City, Utah, tells us about the sweet ways her 3rd grade students are thinking about #COVIDKindness.

Celebrating Milestones May 04, 2020

Finding creative ways to celebrate the class of 2020. Also, how a dedicated mentor changed one man's path.

A Moment Of Kindness From Kelly Apr 30, 2020

Kelly Brooks, in Boston, Mass., called us to tell us about a project she's been working on to bring people together during the pandemic. The origins of her project date back to 2014 and a diagnosis that changed her life.

'There's Always Hope' Apr 27, 2020

Voicemails about kindness during coronavirus from our listeners! Plus, a woman's quick trip to the grocery store turns into a nightmare as she becomes involved in a hostage crisis at a California Trader Joe's.

Donate to support Kind World: www.wbur.org/supportkindworld

A Moment Of Kindness From Becca Apr 23, 2020

Becca Andrews had recently moved to New York City to pursue her acting dreams. One day, as she was riding the subway, she experienced a small act of kindness that would make a big difference.

Into The Desert Apr 20, 2020

CBS's Steve Hartman joins us to talk kindness during Coronavirus PLUS a story about finding solace in nature and new friends.

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

www.wbur.org/supportkindworld

A Moment Of Kindness From Suzie Apr 16, 2020

Suzie Hicks, of Los Angeles, tells us how her "chosen family" helped her one summer when a string of bad headaches turned into a serious medical condition.

A Shining Light Apr 13, 2020

How can worshippers come together during religious holidays during the coronavirus pandemic? Our latest #COVIDKindness update.

Then, a story about how a friend's kind act assured a woman in a painful struggle that she would make it through the darkness.

A Moment Of Kindness From Andrea Apr 09, 2020

The Power Of Love Apr 06, 2020

We talk about creative ways people are dealing with social isolation during the pandemic. Also, a story about why one woman turned her house into a sanctuary for women in recovery.

A Moment Of Kindness From Angela Apr 03, 2020

Finding Hope By Giving Life Mar 30, 2020

In this week's #COVIDKindness update, we discuss help by and for medical professionals. Plus, how one man's search for a kidney donor brought him closer to a colleague and friend looking to restore her faith in patient care.

A Moment Of Kindness From Laura Mar 26, 2020

Laura Niverson, a high school English teacher in Tucson, Ariz., shared with us a story of how her students helped her as she was grieving a difficult loss.

#COVIDKindness & Building A Winning Team Mar 23, 2020

Neighbors helping neighbors during the coronavirus crisis. Plus, the humble beginnings of a remarkable movement to educate generations of refugee children.

A Moment Of Kindness From Marianne Mar 19, 2020

Marianne McCarthy, of New Haven, Conn., shares the story of a stranger who led her to safety during a crowded concert.

The Birthday Meal Mar 16, 2020

When Nancy Kinnally helped a young man living on the streets, she never imagined how meaningful a hot meal and a little hospitality could be.

A Moment Of Kindness From Mallory Mar 12, 2020

Listener Mallory Van Fossen tells us about the time a complete stranger came to her rescue after an accident.

'I'll Never Cry Again' Mar 09, 2020

Nguyen Thi Dep was forced to give up her daughter during the Vietnam War. She spent decades searching for her, until a stranger decided to help.

More Good News: New Season Starts 3/10 Feb 24, 2020

We know there's a lot going on in the news, and sometimes, it's hard to see the good when so much seems bad. But here at Kind World, we know there are still compassionate people doing amazing things for others every day -- small good deeds and life-changing acts of kindness. Our new season starts March 10.

Kindness From Our ... Exes? Feb 13, 2020

Breakups can involve complicated feelings and simmering resentments. But we asked some of our friends and colleagues to reflect back and think about the nice things their exes have done for them. We got some pretty great answers.

Returning A Family Treasure Feb 10, 2020

When a filmmaker bought an old VCR for a video project, he was surprised to find a VHS tape inside, featuring a remarkable family moment. He was determined to find the family in the video.

Glimmers Of Light Amid Darkness Jan 24, 2020

Edith Rubin, 91, survived the holocaust. More than 75 years after she was rescued from a Nazi camp, she remembers the rare moments of kindness she experienced during the darkest time in her life.

The "Thank You Project" Jan 13, 2020

When Writer Nancy Davis Kho decided to spend an entire year writing "thank-you" letters, she didn't expect just how transformative it would be.

Holiday Playlist: The Gift Of Kindness Dec 23, 2019

A collection of Kind World stories that showcase the power of a small but life-changing gift.

Teaching Kids To "Be Kind" Dec 19, 2019

An author shares her thoughts on how kids can take an active role in creating a better world. Plus, we visit a children's book shop to check out some favorite stories about kindness.

'The Power Of Niceness' Dec 16, 2019

Six years ago, Ruthy Brown answered Laura DiGeronimo's cry for help on Facebook, agreeing to clear her driveway piled high with snow. Neither woman expected the simple but significant act of kindness to change Laura's life dramatically for the better.

Kind World Presents: "Endless Thread" Dec 12, 2019

A slew of unexpected letters, one awesome invention, and an exceptionally kind Santa. These are some of the most heartwarming stories from Reddit - aka "the front page of the internet."

'The Bike Man' Dec 09, 2019

Bob Charland doesn't know how much time he has left to live. But he knows that while he's here, he wants to bring joy to as many kids as possible.

Kind World Presents: We Share The Same Sky Dec 05, 2019

In 2017, Rachael Cerrotti shared her story with Kind World. This year, she released a podcast called "We Share The Same Sky," detailing her grandmother Hana's incredible story of survival -- and the journey Rachael took to learn every bit of it.

A Remarkable Family History Dec 02, 2019

Rachael Cerrotti spent the last decade obsessing over her family history. She uncovered a remarkable story about her grandmother, Hana Dubova, who was the only person in her Jewish Czech family to survive the Holocaust.

Change Of Heart Nov 25, 2019

Rais Bhuiyan was almost killed by a white supremacist. The hate-filled attack shattered his life. As Rais picked up the pieces, he then decided to do something extraordinary.

The Crash And The Camino Nov 18, 2019

Mark Joseph Peredo and Luke Hutchins may have never crossed paths. But in the aftermath of a highway crash, the two men needed to find a different way to heal. They set off together to walk a centuries-old pilgrimage.

"Is Everything OK?" Nov 11, 2019

Lynn Schutzman had right education, the right job, and the right marriage. Then, she lost everything...until one day, someone asked her a life-changing question.

The Bugler's Salute Nov 04, 2019

When Gary Marquardt attended a veteran’s funeral and heard a squeaky recording of taps honoring the fallen soldier, he was taken aback. Then he learned about an organization that aims to have a live bugler at every veteran’s memorial service.

The Road To Reconnection Oct 28, 2019

When Chick McClure, a transgender man, began transitioning three years ago, he was terrified his father would reject him. Then one day, Chick got an unexpected call from his father.

Lifelines, Pt. 3: A Place Of Respite Oct 21, 2019

A woman, who fled her country after a vicious attack, now helps other refugees overcome trauma.

Lifelines, Pt. 2: The Sidewalk School Oct 11, 2019

Many of the migrants living at the Matamoros, Mexico border encampment are young children. To help them, Felicia Rangel-Samponaro began a makeshift school where the classes are led by asylum-seekers themselves.

Lifelines, Pt. 1: Wagons Of Hope Oct 07, 2019

We cross the southern border with a dedicated group of volunteers, who are the only source of food, clean water, and shelter for hundreds of asylum seekers.

Kind World Presents: 'Lifelines' Sep 30, 2019

Kind World Presents "Lifelines:' Stories of Compassion At The Southern Border.

Changing A Life Through Books Sep 16, 2019

Reading and a chance encounter with a former English teacher helped Dan Wise through what he called the scariest time in his life.

BONUS: The Wisdom Of The Moving Man Aug 30, 2019

When we take stock of the people who matter most to us, there are the spouses, the family members, the best friends, the partners. And then there are the people who aren’t any of those things, but who change our lives anyway.

Expanding Boundaries Through Music Aug 19, 2019

Classical Violinist David France came to realize that students from low-income backgrounds could excel just as much as wealthy ones, if they have the right teacher.

BONUS: One Kid's Extraordinary Summer Aug 05, 2019

11-year-old Ruby asked residents at a nursing home to list their three wishes. What they said - and what she did next - surprised everyone.

A Sun That Keeps Shining Jul 22, 2019

Almost three years ago, Norah Wood, 6, helped Dan Peterson, 84, through his grief. Today, their friendship is still as strong as ever.

A Stranger's Rescue Jul 15, 2019

When Michael Connor saw a burning car on the side of the road, he stopped to see how he could help. He didn't expect to save a child's life seconds before a disaster.

A Sister, A Surrogate Jul 08, 2019

In 2014, Melissa Turner went above and beyond the bond of sisterhood to become a surrogate for her identical twin, Jen. Five years since the birth of Jen's own twin girls, the sisters have experienced tremendous joy and unimaginable tragedy.

The Valedictorian Jul 01, 2019

José Bou went from solitary confinement to college professor and youth mentor.

Finding Family After Seeking Asylum Jun 24, 2019

A young man fled his country for the U.S. after his life was threatened. He lost everything and spiraled into a deep depression. That's when a family stepped up to help him rebuild his life.

A Story Of Basketball, Friendship And Mental Health Jun 17, 2019

When David Pradel was going through a hard time, Nate Edwards was there to help. But David didn't know that Nate was suffering from depression, too.

Kids Fuel Scientific Breakthrough Jun 10, 2019

Six years ago, Dylan Siegel thought of a way to help his friend living with a rare liver disease. Now, his idea is funding life-changing scientific research.

A Connecting Flight Jun 03, 2019

After a chance meeting on an airplane, school volunteer LynnEllen was inspired to help Timothy feel closer to home during his first deployment to Afghanistan. The letters he received were as unexpected as their meeting.

Rebuilding Lives Through Tiny Houses May 27, 2019

A couple forced into homelessness finds shelter and community in a tiny house village built by volunteers.

A Recipe For Renewal May 20, 2019

When Chef Rebecca Kelly-Manders met Quintin Storey, she knew he was perfect for her new culinary program catering to a special population: people with felony convictions. It's a population Rebecca and Quintin know intimately. They're both felons.

BONUS: A Conversation With Drummers Jonathan Mande And Jorge Perez-Albela May 16, 2019

In "The Rhythm Within," we spoke to Jonathan Mande and Jorge Perez-Albela about how they developed a close bond through drumming. Here are some additional highlights from our conversation with them at the WBUR studios.

The Rhythm Within May 13, 2019

A boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo moves to Boston with his family after living through harrowing civil unrest. As he struggles in his new reality, a drumming teacher steps in and helps him find his identity.

Stand-In Mom May 06, 2019

Sara Cunningham struggled when her son told her he was gay. Now she volunteers as a stand-in mom at same-sex weddings when the biological parents refuse to attend.

An Adoption Calling Answered Apr 29, 2019

A woman with a rare disease and her husband decide to expand their little family by adopting boys who all share the same rare disease she does.

Love For The Least Loved Apr 22, 2019

Growing up in a violent and chaotic home almost pushed Aaron Stark to commit a mass shooting. He says the simple acts of kindness from his friends stopped him from making a horrible mistake.

Stuck in Transit Apr 15, 2019

A Syrian man is stuck at an airport terminal for months and a determined stranger makes it her mission to help him get out.

Trailer: new season starts April 16! Apr 09, 2019

Kind World is a show about transformative acts of kindness. We've got stories that will inspire you, lift your spirit, and stories that may even make you tear up a little. Our new season begins April 16. Subscribe now and don't miss an episode.

All-Star Friendship Jan 08, 2019

Reporter Shirley Wang tells the story of her father, Lin Wang, a cat-litter scientist who befriended NBA Hall-of-Famer Charles Barkley.

After The Flood Jan 01, 2019

Coach Kevin Motsinger was one of many North Carolinians displaced by Hurricane Florence earlier this year. Despite his own devastating losses, the 45-year-old high school football coach focused on rebuilding his small, rural town.

An Unbroken Record Dec 24, 2018

Iowa basketball player Jordan Bohannon had the perfect opportunity to break an existing free throw record and solidify his name in Iowa sports history. He decided to sacrifice it all for the sake of one family.

The Lift Dec 17, 2018

Community worker Cathy Heying realized that cars are the lifeline for many people with financial struggles. She decided to dedicate herself to helping others get that lifeline back.

A Priceless Collection Dec 10, 2018

A bereaved grandfather was looking for cards of his deceased son, who used to play in the MLB. When he reached out to an avid baseball card collector for help, he got way more than he ever expected.

The Teacher's Aid Dec 03, 2018

When Jenn Carson found out her father was a serial killer, she thought she was doomed to follow a dark path. But then she met a teacher who could see "the goodness" in her.

More Than A Trim Nov 26, 2018

Lenny White always wanted a job that would bring him purpose. After becoming a barber, he realized his trims could offer so much more to men with dementia.

The Marching Band Nov 19, 2018

Drew Bell knew he wanted to be in his high school's marching band even though he couldn't walk. A friend's act of kindness, and sacrifice, helped him do just that.

Aubree's Songs Nov 12, 2018

Baby Aubree was born nearly three months early and was diagnosed with a rare chromosomal disorder. One of her therapists helped her mother record songs to play to Aubree when her parents are away.

New Ink Feb 28, 2018

Much like addressing racism, covering a tattoo can be more complicated than getting the original.

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