Hello Ashley & Brit!
My name is Liv, and I’ve been a listener since 2019! I’m writing to you because I believe your podcast saved my life the other day.
I was flying into Connecticut from Virginia alone. My flight was delayed, so I didn’t land until 2am. It’s a small airport, so at 2am, there are almost no staff members around. I was walking to get my rental car when I noticed a man was following me. He started making small talk as he noticed my backpack, which indicated I worked in healthcare. He started asking me questions like “Where do you work?” “Where are you from?” “Are you visiting or do you live here?” They all seemed so mundane, right? But as we Crime Junkies know, this could be dangerous.
Because of what I learned from your podcast, I never gave him any information. I kept my answers vague and moved to places where people were. I got my husband on the phone and put him on speaker phone, but the man kept following me. When I found out they gave away my rental car, the man (who was still following me) asked “Where are you trying to get to?” That’s when I became RUDE! I told him, “You are making me uncomfortable, get away from me. I have my husband on the phone and multiple people tracking my location and waiting for me.” I was loud and caused a scene to get people to notice. He then backed up and said “oh, I didn’t realize you had someone on the phone.” And he left. I had airport workers stay with me until I got a ride.
True crime is so much more than storytelling. It keeps us alive and safe. Because of you, I have learned so much about how to keep myself safe and to watch for all warning signs.
Maybe this guy was innocent, but I had to keep asking myself, “What if he wasn’t?” I truly believe your podcast kept me alive that day. I am so thankful for what you do for women and the community. Because of you, I can write to you today.
I was weird, I was rude, and because of Crime Junkie, I’m alive.
Thank you,
Liv