Get Out of My House

No matter who you are or what your zodiac sign may be, we all have the capability to take charge when necessary. Johanna Ferreira, content director of PopSugar Juntos, shared her Capricorn traits, explaining how goats climb hills and take control when needed. Meanwhile, in a Criminal episode, Carmela Aleefey, a Charleston dog walk house owner, demonstrated this trait when unexpected events unfolded in her rental property. In 1977, Carmela and her husband bought a house in Atlanta's artsy area, Little Five Points, planning to live on one side and rent the other. During a wallpaper removal project, a large police presence appeared outside. Carmela, watering her plants, noticed the commotion and sensed something was amiss. She took charge, alerting her housemates and keeping them informed as the situation unfolded. These stories remind us that we all have the potential to be brave and take control when needed, even if it's not something we actively seek.

Unexpected and threatening situations can leave us feeling frightened and disoriented. The speaker in this text found herself in such a situation when two strangers, one of whom was armed, entered her home. Despite the presence of the army ranger Hubertus, who tried to calm everyone down, the speaker and her friends were terrified and reacted with fear. The situation was further complicated by the fact that the strangers were supposedly on the run from the police. The speaker's initial instinct was to escape, but when she encountered the men again, she was forced to bring them into the kitchen where her friends were waiting. The situation highlights the unpredictability of life and the importance of staying calm in the face of danger. The speaker's reaction, while understandable, demonstrates how fear can cloud our judgment and make us act impulsively. Hubertus' calm demeanor, on the other hand, shows the importance of remaining composed in stressful situations. The appearance of the strangers, particularly the one who resembled Marty Feldman from Young Frankenstein, added to the overall sense of unease and uncertainty.

During a home invasion, a woman's initial reaction was not to be scared or vulnerable, but rather to feel violated and angry. She wanted the intruders out of her house and reacted aggressively, even when one of them pulled a gun on her. Despite the danger, she tried to make things better by offering the intruders something to eat and drink. Her husband eventually intervened and they all left the scene. This incident highlights the complex emotions that can arise during a home invasion and the unexpected ways people may respond to such a situation.

Even in tense situations, finding common ground and showing a calm demeanor can help build trust and ease tensions. This was evident in the story when Bear, with his quiet and southern charm, was able to get the outlaws to relax and trust him by sharing a beer and discussing their mutual appreciation for Willie Nelson and Willie Jennings. Meanwhile, Pretty Litter offers a different kind of relief by providing superior odor control and health monitoring for cats, making life easier for cat owners. The Apple Card, with its varying rewards, can also help customers save money on their purchases. Overall, these anecdotes illustrate the importance of finding common ground, staying calm, and making the most of opportunities for savings.

During a hostage situation involving escaped convicts, the fear and uncertainty kept everyone in check and prevented any rash actions. The convicts were careful to keep the hostages in sight and made threats if they called the police. They stayed for hours, waiting for it to get dark before leaving. The hostages were left with few options and had to rely on their wits and the help of their family to ensure their safety. The Sicilian background of one of the family members, who was known for his tough demeanor, played a role in their decision to call for help. The situation underscores the importance of staying calm and thinking strategically in dangerous situations.

The world can be unpredictable and dangerous, as illustrated by the events surrounding the escape of James Edwin Wilkes junior and Murphy Staffins from prison and their subsequent crime spree. The speaker's encounter with these men and their subsequent discovery of the stolen gun in her bed added to her sense of unease and fear. Despite advancements in communication and technology, the feeling of danger and uncertainty remains. The men, who were on a crime spree for six days, were eventually caught but left a trail of fear and chaos in their wake. The speaker's experience serves as a reminder that danger can lurk in unexpected places and that being vigilant and prepared is essential. Additionally, the consequences of criminal actions can be far-reaching and impact many lives beyond the immediate victims.

Storytelling brings people together and creates entertainment. The podcast "Criminal" showcases real-life stories, and even though some may seem extraordinary, they serve as reminders of the power of human connection. The host, Phoebe Judge, shares a personal story about being held hostage by escaped convicts and how it makes her an unlikely candidate for jury duty. This anecdote highlights the importance of sharing experiences and the unique bond that forms when people gather to listen and tell stories. The podcast's success is a testament to the enduring appeal of storytelling and the human connection it fosters. "Criminal" is produced by Lawrence Spohr and Phoebe Judge, with contributions from Nadia Wilson, Teresa Katsurillis, Rob Byers, Jenna Allstead, and Julian Alexander. The podcast is recorded in the studios of North Carolina Public Radio and is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.