Searching For Heroes With Benjamin Hall

"Opportunities are around you all the time. You've got to see them, hear them, and grab them with both hands." — Steve Judge After surviving a near-fatal car accident that crushed both of his legs, Paratriathlon World Champion and motivational speaker Steve Judge was determined to walk again, even when doctors said it was impossible. Years later, he is a two-time world champion who has reclaimed his pre-accident passion for running, albeit in a different way. Steve highlights the resilient mindset he fosters to continue striving for a life without regrets.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shot six times while shielding his children, Elon Zizer reveals the split-second decision that saved his family during the Bondi Beach terror attack in Sydney, Australia. He recounts that terrifying day and the "hidden strength" that allowed him to survive the unthinkable, from using his body as a shield to the heroism of strangers who stepped in to save lives.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hendricks Chapel is more than just a campus landmark it's a spiritual home away from home for the Syracuse University community. In this final episode of America's Churches, Benjamin Hall visits Syracuse University to explore Hendricks Chapel, "the spiritual heartbeat" of the campus that has served as a welcoming interfaith refuge since the late 1920s. He discovers how the chapel integrates faith into every aspect of university life, from supporting student-athletes on the field to providing a sanctuary for healing and unity during the community's darkest chapters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a city that weathered many storms, one sanctuary remains an anchor of faith. In this second episode of the FOX Nation special America's Churches, Benjamin Hall travels to the heart of New Orleans to explore St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest active cathedral in continuous use in the United States. He highlights the cathedral's role as a pillar of resilience, discovering how its history of rebuilding after fires and hurricanes mirrors the unbreakable spirit and faith of the city itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Faith meets the front lines in the FOX Nation special America's Churches. Join Benjamin Hall as he explores the iconic U.S. Naval Academy Chapel, Brigade of Midshipmen Chapel, where the intersection of faith and service shapes the next generation of military leaders. He discovers how the sanctuary's historic architecture serves as a beacon of light and a source of strength for midshipmen facing their hardest moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Actor and founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation, Gary Sinise shares his deep commitment to service, inspired by the Vietnam veterans in his own family and his iconic portrayal of Lieutenant Dan in the film Forrest Gump. He explains why the terror attacks on 9/11 was a turning point in his life and a call to action to support military members deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"You can't have courage without fear." - Jason Everson   Lieutenant Commander Jason Everson, First Battalion Chaplain at the United States Naval Academy, dives into the powerful role of spiritual readiness as an essential pillar of a midshipman's life.   He explores the sacred brotherhood of military service and reflects on a profound moment his faith was tested while submerged in a submarine. He also shares his belief that courage requires inherent fear; otherwise, the act would simply be ordinary. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"The only true rock is God himself, and He's eternal." - Shannon Bream FOX News Sunday anchor and host of the Livin' the Bream podcast, Shannon Bream, introduces her new book, Nothing is Impossible with God — a vulnerable reflection on how her faith carried her through chronic pain and a season of professional imposter syndrome. Shannon shares a powerful message on the peace that comes with being still and trusting in God's eternal presence amidst a chaotic world Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FOX News senior correspondent Mike Tobin recently conquered one of the world's ultimate challenges: Mount Everest. He breaks down the grueling journey to the top of the world and the raw mental and physical grit required to survive the death zone. Drawing on their shared experiences in global conflict zones, Ben and Mike explore the striking parallels between reporting from the frontlines and pushing the limits of high-altitude mountaineering. Mike shares how he navigates the intense moments by silencing the inner loser that tells him to quit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Get ready to Read All About It!   This week, Benjamin shares an extra special sneak peek at his very first children's book inspired by a weathered little toy hedgehog that traveled in his pocket through war zones and back home again. Plus, Benjamin's daughters make their podcast debut to talk about their famous hedgehog friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former crime reporter Debra Des Vignes has gone beyond the headlines to understand and reform the minds of those behind bars.  While volunteering inside a prison, Debra discovered the profound impact creative writing had on incarcerated individuals. This inspired her to form the Indiana Prison Writers Workshop, a course that allows participants to process past traumas, express remorse, and develop greater self-awareness.  She discusses the transformations she has witnessed and explains why she transitioned away from news reporting to focus on the human story behind the crime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered what it takes to face the impossible in a split-second choice? Medal of Honor recipient Captain Florent Groberg recounts his experience serving in Afghanistan, where he was forced to make a life-altering decision in a high-stakes moment. Following the attack, Captain Groberg discusses his long recovery process, addressing his battle with mental health and the journey of finding a new purpose. He explains the immense responsibility he carries as a Medal of Honor recipient, viewing the award not as a personal prize, but as a duty to pay homage to the brothers-in-arms he lost that day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben revisits his conversation with adventurer Darren Edwards and provides an update on Darren's most recent mission to redefine the impossible. While mountaineering at "World's End" in North Wales, Darren plummeted 100 feet after the rock face gave way beneath his feet. The impact shattered his spine and severed his spinal cord, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down. Darren discusses how his best friend, Matt, saved his life in a split-second moment and what his recovery process has looked like beyond the initial physical trauma. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Benjamin discusses the ongoing government crackdown on protests that continue across Iran. He describes the lack of freedom experienced by the Iranian people under the current regime and the great difficulty to speak to anyone in country because of the imposed internet blackout, and the deadly fear of regime retaliation. Benjamin analyzes the complex geopolitical situation facing the U.S. in dealing with the Iranian regime. He shares his experience traveling within the country and the people's hospitable culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"One day you're going to see it will be fine." - Mark Schonwetter In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day, survivor Mark Schonwetter and his daughter Isabella Fiske join Benjamin to shed light on the importance of acceptance, resilience, and faith. Mark was a young child when the Nazis occupied Poland during World War II. He talks about fleeing his home to the Dębica Ghetto, surviving near starvation, and hiding with his mom and sister.  He describes how his mother's relentless positivity gave his family hope to survive.  Years after World War II ended, Mark immigrated to America, where he and his daughters founded the Mark Schonwetter Holocaust Education Foundation, to educate students on the history of the Holocaust and the dangers of religious hatred. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

 "You can't just take away someone's right, because you think it's something they can't do." - Hari Budha Magar World Record breaking mountaineer and Pride of Britain winner Hari Budha Magar shares his commitment to defy all odds and continue seeking adventure despite losing his legs in 2010 to an IED in Afghanistan whilst serving with the British Army's Ghurkha regiment. Hari retells his journey to become the first double above-knee amputee to summit the highest mountain on every continent. Despite facing immense physical and mental challenges, Hari shares his mission to inspire others to tackle the "Mount Everests" in their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Resilience is something that is built." - Robert Paylor Motivational speaker and author of 'Paralyzed to Powerful', Robert Paylor, a former University of California, Berkeley rugby player, was paralyzed from the neck down during the 2017 National Championships. Instantaneously, an unforgettable day quickly became a pivotal moment in his life. Despite this life-altering injury, Robert has shown incredible resilience and determination throughout his recovery process, breaking barriers that his doctors labeled impossible. He shares the mental strategies he employs to stay positive and the importance of forgiveness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Life keeps moving, so grab that opportunity now." As 2026 kicks off, Benjamin is looking forward to the Lunar New Year as we begin the transition from the Year of the Snake to the Year of the Fire Horse. He explains why now is the time to let go of the past and to seize new opportunities. Benjamin discusses his New Year's resolutions and encourages everyone to make changes that support growth and self-improvement. He explains why the New Year is the best time to dive into new opportunities and to take action. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“No matter how difficult your life is…you can find your way through.”  This year on Searching for Heroes, Benjamin connected with people who endured some of life's most difficult moments and yet displayed profound resilience and unshakeable hope. Benjamin also introduced different themes to the podcast, with vulnerable and beautiful conversations on solitude, forgiveness, and rebirth. After speaking with remarkable individuals and hearing stories from powerful guests, Benjamin revisits four conversations that truly embody the podcast. Steve Callahan, Scarlett Lewis, Michael Franzese, and Darren Edwards generously shared their exceptional stories and offered insight into navigating some of life's most challenging situations.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Ellen Maguire Foundation's Noel Maguire spends his days working as a pallbearer and nights working the overnight shift as an Upper East Side doorman in Manhattan. While juggling two jobs, Noel spends any free time he has caring for Manhattan's homeless. Noel discusses the incredible work of The Ellen Maguire Foundation, which he founded to honor his mother who was the inspiration behind his quest to help people experiencing homelessness. He also shares why giving back to this community matters to him and how the foundation has grown since it started.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"People want something to believe in."   Vietnam War veteran, New York Times bestselling author, and founder of GoDaddy, Bob Parsons, shares his passion for helping veterans navigate the mental health challenges associated with transitioning to civilian life.  Despite nearly flunking out of high school, Bob enlisted in the Marines during the Vietnam War to serve his country. While abroad, he was severely wounded in combat and found that his trauma overtook his life once he returned home.   Bob discusses his journey to overcome post-traumatic stress disorder and how he continues to help veterans do the same. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why do some people run towards danger while others avoid it? Wisconsin Congressman Derrick Van Orden was driving to a memorial for the anniversary of his daughter's passing when he witnessed a horrific car crash. In an instant, he jumped into action, using his training as a Navy SEAL combat medic to save an 11-year-old boy's life. Congressman Van Orden recounts his experience on that pivotal day and why he believes a greater power guided him there. He also discusses the unique path he took to becoming a Navy SEAL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While rock climbing in North Wales, Darren Edwards fell nearly 100 feet, paralyzing him from the chest down with a severe spinal cord injury. He credits his best friend's quick thinking for saving his life on the day of the accident, when, in a split-second decision, his friend jumped after him. Darren shares his experience recovering from the accident, what it was like to lose a relationship close to him, and how his best friend saved him even after the incident. He also discusses his transition into his next adventure and his plan to set a new world record by completing the most extended sit-ski expedition in polar exploration history to raise money for a cure for Spinal Cord Injuries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the militia group known as the "West Side Boys" held former Royal Irish Regiment soldier Ian Getty captive in the African jungles of Sierra Leone, he didn't know if he'd make it through the night. Twenty-five years later, Ian visited the site where he was held hostage. Ian details the terrifying seventeen days in captivity and the moment the Special Air Service (SAS) came to his rescue.  He reflects on the torture he and his team endured, how he found strength in the aftermath, and why returning to the site of his capture was important for him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Shandra Woworuntu was 24 years old, she left her home country of Indonesia in hopes of finding a job and a better life in the United States. Once she arrived in America, she quickly realized the job she had applied for did not exist and she was thrust into the unimaginable. Shandra joins Benjamin to share her human trafficking survival story and her commitment to protecting and advocating on behalf of survivors. She discusses the advocacy work of her anti-trafficking organization, Mentari and it's mission to heal, restore and empower. To report a potential human trafficking situation, contact 888-373-7888. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Freedom, it's priceless." Eli Sharabi's life changed forever when he was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023. After nearly 500 days in captivity, Eli was freed this past February, and he returned home to the heartbreaking reality that his wife and two daughters had been killed.  Almost nine months later, Eli shares his experience being held hostage, how he manages his grief, and what his family and friends have done to uplift him through life's darkest moments.  Eli also reflects on his memoir, Hostage, in which he shares his story of heartbreak, survival and strength. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Saved' is really what happens when the tunnel finally widens and a hand reaches through the dark and grabs you.”  With his own life as a reference, Benjamin will explore a new theme: saved. Over the next few episodes, he will sit down with people who were pulled out from captivity and brought home, as well as the people who risk their lives to save people in these circumstances. Benjamin will discuss life after being saved, how to cope with the memories, and create a path forward. He also reflects on his own journey of being saved and offers the encouragement that no matter what someone is experiencing, they will get stronger every day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“The scars of what I lost was proof of what I had gained.” In honor of the podcast's 100th episode Benjamin reflects on impactful conversations and lessons he's heard along the way. Benjamin's journey is built on resilience, along with the stories and guests that are highlighted. Stories of accepting, adapting, and embracing moments in life that we couldn't see coming and those that we did. He also looks ahead to the next 100 episodes with gratitude and a commitment to continue highlighting the best of humanity.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former NFL star and best-selling author Tim Green discusses his battle with progressive neurodegenerative disease (ALS) and how it transformed him not only physically but spiritually.  Despite no longer being able to speak, Tim continues to write, work, and communicate using an AI-generated voice and eye-tracking. He shares how his diagnosis reframed his values and purpose, while strengthening his relationship with his family.  Tim describes his message to the world as encouraging strength through adversity and cultivating faith to overcome obstacles.  Stay connected with Tim on his podcast: Nothing Left Unsaid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What if you woke up and lost 20 years of memories, and had no recollection of your husband and child? In 1991, that nightmare became a reality for Anne Howell. Author of All That I Forget Anne Howell retells the journey of rebuilding her life after being diagnosed with retrograde amnesia at 30 years old and waking up in the hospital with the belief that she was 9 years old again.    Anne details the moments where she had to rely on the stories from her loved ones to help piece together her forgotten life. Metaphorically, she woke up with ingredients to a recipe she couldn't remember and instead of giving up, she discovered a new taste for something just as sweet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host of The Connectors Podcast Quinten Sheriff was raised in a sheltered environment in Zimbabwe. At a young age, he was given parameters for how and who he should be, until one day he decided he was ready to take ownership of his life and run away with his partner to live in his truth as a gay man in Southern Africa. What Quinten believed to be a desire to escape was ultimately a commitment to expand and not be held captive to a life he did not want to live. Quinten's journey of personal liberation has inspired him to encourage people to embrace their authenticity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's no set instruction manual for rebuilding your life, but the first step is simply, just to start. Following several impactful conversations on the topics of rebirth and new beginnings, Benjamin reflects on what it means in his own life. After being severely injured in Ukraine and returning home, Benjamin's outlook on family, purpose, and resilience was reframed. He was allowed to re-experience life.  Although the journey was one of patience, grief, and immense discomfort, there was so much beauty in the reinvention. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"If God didn't have a different plan and purpose for my life, I don't think I would be here today." Author, speaker, and former Colombo Family Caporegime Michael Franzese details his experience with the mob and the epiphany that ultimately led him to turn a new chapter and step away from his life of crime. Years later, Michael's life is dedicated to helping young people, who become entranced by the facade of glamour, fame, and power that the mob presents, see the dark reality of the business. He also shares how his faith and family were a guiding light in his rebirth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"It turned into this dark thing where I was using my pain as a party favor." In 2018, Aaron Stark's story of rebirth captivated the nation when his TED Talk entitled "I Was Almost A School Shooter" went viral.  Aaron details how his traumatic childhood introduced him to a life of self-destruction and low self-esteem. He joins Ben to share how the unconditional kindness of a friend ultimately gave him the courage to rebuild his life and become the man he always wanted to be. Now, as a mental health advocate, Aaron emphasizes the importance of extending compassion to those who need it.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Although not everyone experiences trauma that drives significant change, many people undergo transformations and choose to redirect their lives for a new purpose. Ben describes the courage it takes to go through a rebirth and how inspiring these stories are to people who desire a new lease on life.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Award-winning journalist and the founder of 'The Forgiveness Project,' Marina Cantacuzino, explains the inspiration behind her passion project, 'The Forgiveness Project.'  She shares stories of forgiveness and how her research deepened her understanding of the topic.  Marina examines the nature of forgiveness, providing examples of individuals who have experienced tragedies and how they've navigated their trauma. She also dissects whether religion plays a significant role in forgiveness and whether it helps an individual move forward with their life.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On December 14, 2012, Scarlett Lewis experienced a life-altering pain when she, along with the world, discovered that her 6-year-old son Jesse, 19 of his classmates, and 6 educators had been killed in a school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary school.  The morning of his murder, Jesse left three words, "Norturing Helinn Love" behind on the kitchen chalkboard, as a permanent reminder of his incredible and pure life. These three words would become the catalyst for Scarlett establishing the Choose Love Movement, a reminder that at the root of forgiveness and understanding is nurturing, healing, and love.  Jesse's life is a profound reminder of how forgiveness goes beyond letting go of pain and anger, but instead choosing to understand, in order to let go.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Does our society require us to forgive?  Author of "You Don't Need To Forgive," Amanda Ann Gregory, ponders whether it is a dire necessity.  As a trauma survivor, Amanda understands what it is like to struggle with the idea of forgiveness, and now as a licensed trauma psychotherapist, she helps others conquer the subject. She describes the importance of feeling all the emotions following a trauma, and explores the belief that forgiveness is not always the solution to healing emotional trauma. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"There are victims at both ends of the gun," was Azim Khamisa's response when asked how he was able to forgive and build a relationship with his son's killer. After the gang-related murder of his son Tariq in 1995, Azim grappled with the concept of forgiveness, leaning on his faith and family to help him heal. He shares his story of forgiveness and the steps he believes people can follow on their personal journeys of healing. Later, he reflects on the remarkable work of the Tariq Khamisa Foundation to reduce youth violence across the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Benjamin closes out the theme of solitude, he introduces the next theme: forgiveness.Does forgiveness benefit society better than the victim? If it doesn't erase pain, does it restore what has been lost? Does forgiveness come from the pressure to be noble?  Over the next few weeks Benjamin will have deep conversations to uncover the answers to these questions, while also exploring his own thoughts and feelings on both the presence and absence of forgiveness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Solitude Chapter 4: Is spending time alone the answer to redirecting our attention? As Benjamin concludes this chapter on solitude he's joined by the author of The Point of Vanishing, Howard Axelrod.After suffering a traumatic eye injury, that left him blind in one eye, Howard felt disconnected from the world around him. His solution for reconnection was to pack his bags and move to the woods of northern Vermont for two years and live in complete isolation.  Howard shares how he discovered the beauty in solitude and discusses what it was like to reconnect with himself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Solitude Chapter Three: Ben and Principal Investigator of The Solitude Lab, Dr. Thuy-Vy Nguyen, explores the misconception that solitude is the absence of connection, as opposed to the positive presence of self. Dr. Nguyen provides insight on how intention is a moderator between solitude and loneliness, understanding the difference between choosing to be alone vs. being in a state of isolation. Later, they discuss how our time alone can be the answer to some of life's toughest questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices