🎙️ Interesting Humans Podcast

Jeff Hopeck

🎙️Real life stories you need to hear. Hosted by Jeff Hopeck, former U.S. Secret Service Officer.  Episodes include: ⚔️ Retired FBI Agent - SOLVED: Most gruesome display of human depravity 🩸Bloody Sunday Survivor + MLK Protege 🏥 Survivor "Mother of All Surgeries" 📸 TikTok Mega-influencer 4 million followers ♣️ 2015 World Series of Poker Champion ♦️  🧠 Brain Surgeon – Behind the scenes 👀 Blind at 21 – Harvard. Coder. Skier ⚾ Jeff Francoeur – MLB star to sports broadcaster 🧠 12-Year Glioblastoma Survivor ⚔️ Retired U.S. Secret Service Agents 💉 Oxycontin & Heroin – From addiction to redemption 🇺🇸 WW2 Vet 👨‍⚕️ Trauma & Burn Surgeon – ER lessons ✈️ F-18 Pilot – The adrenaline-fueled life at Mach speed 🦈 Robert Herjavec’s (Shark Tank) CEO – Life + Business 🏈 Randy Cross – NFL Super Bowls & CBS Sports legend

  1. 3D AGO

    Ep. 59: Shot in the Throat with a Hunting Rifle and Lived!

    Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee:  https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast In this episode, Keith Mask shares his harrowing experience of being shot in the throat at the age of 18 during a hunting trip. He recounts the events leading up to the incident, the immediate aftermath, and the emergency response that followed. Keith describes the pain and fear he felt, the miraculous survival against the odds, and the long road to recovery. He reflects on the lessons learned from this traumatic experience and how it shaped his life moving forward. Takeaways Keith was shot in the throat at 18 years old.The incident occurred during a hunting trip with his stepdad.He experienced no pain medication for almost three hours after being shot.Keith's stepdad, a Vietnam vet, recognized the severity of the injury immediately.He felt a sense of impending doom, believing he was going to die.The emergency response was critical in saving his life.A trauma surgeon happened to be at the hospital when he arrived.Keith's recovery involved multiple surgeries, including a tracheotomy.He experienced PTSD after the incident, affecting his relationship with hunting.Keith reflects on the spiritual significance of his survival and the lessons learned.Volleybird Subscription BoxesVolleybird.shop for curated pickleball subscription boxes delivered every 8 weeksSupport the show Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast A free & easy way to support my show is to review Interesting Humans Podcast on Apple Podcasts.t’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and it helps others discover it, too. You can follow, watch, listen and connect with me here: TikTok :: YOUTUBE :: Facebook :: Instagram Thank you for being part of the Interesting Humans Podcast community! ❤️ I truly appreciate your support. Jeff Hopeck, Host

    46 min
  2. MAY 29

    Ep. 58: Pilot's Trifecta of Near-death Experiences & more …

    Most pilots retire having never experienced 1 of these near-death experiences. Not Kelly Fox. As a 747 Pilot, he experienced all 3 ... in one ONE trip! That's correct. In just 72 hours, this pilot stared death in the face and each time his training fought back and wrestled the demon of death to the ground; each time emerging victorious and ready for the next battle.  In this episode, we discuss the different paths one can take in becoming a pilot. Had you asked me before this episode I would have said you needed to learn flying in the military and only retired military become pilots. WoW! Was I way off! Kelly tells great stories about close calls, when planes are "covered" versus when they fall out of air traffic control, he shares his opinion on how the famous MH370 Malaysian flight can possibly disappear, and so much more.  Volleybird Subscription BoxesVolleybird.shop for curated pickleball subscription boxes delivered every 8 weeksSupport the show Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast A free & easy way to support my show is to review Interesting Humans Podcast on Apple Podcasts.t’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and it helps others discover it, too. You can follow, watch, listen and connect with me here: TikTok :: YOUTUBE :: Facebook :: Instagram Thank you for being part of the Interesting Humans Podcast community! ❤️ I truly appreciate your support. Jeff Hopeck, Host

    1h 39m
  3. Ep. 57: CIA Missions Gone Wrong

    MAY 22

    Ep. 57: CIA Missions Gone Wrong

    In this engaging conversation, Nic McKinley shares his unique experiences as a CIA operative, highlighting the humorous and unexpected moments that occur in high-stakes intelligence operations. He discusses the advantages of using Riverside for podcasting, recounts funny stories from combat, and reflects on the challenges faced during covert operations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adaptability and humor in the field, providing listeners with a fascinating glimpse into the world of national security. In this conversation, Nic McKinley shares gripping stories from his experiences in high-stress situations, including a tense confrontation with armed individuals and the unexpected assistance he received from a translator. He discusses the physiological responses to danger, the thrill of adrenaline, and the ongoing fight against human trafficking, reflecting on a decade of work in this critical area. Volleybird Subscription BoxesVolleybird.shop for curated pickleball subscription boxes delivered every 8 weeksSupport the show Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast A free & easy way to support my show is to review Interesting Humans Podcast on Apple Podcasts.t’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and it helps others discover it, too. You can follow, watch, listen and connect with me here: TikTok :: YOUTUBE :: Facebook :: Instagram Thank you for being part of the Interesting Humans Podcast community! ❤️ I truly appreciate your support. Jeff Hopeck, Host

    32 min
  4. Ep. 56: Retired U.S. Secret Service Agent (Near-Death Story & More!)

    MAY 15

    Ep. 56: Retired U.S. Secret Service Agent (Near-Death Story & More!)

    What happens when a Secret Service agent stares death in the face—over and over again? Meet Scott Bryson, a man whose career in the Secret Service reads like a Hollywood thriller. From high-stakes missions overseas to life-or-death moments on U.S. soil, Scott’s stories aren’t just intense—they’re jaw-dropping. In this episode, he takes us inside some of the most heart-pounding moments of his career, including a dramatic hospital dash while leading the protection detail for Lara Trump—just as she was about to give birth. Scott’s charisma, courage, and storytelling will hook you instantly. He’s built a massive following on Instagram and YouTube, and his podcast Beyond the Service is a must-listen for anyone who loves real stories of courage, chaos, and character. If you like stories that make your palms sweat and your heart race, you’re in the right place. Volleybird Subscription BoxesVolleybird.shop for curated pickleball subscription boxes delivered every 8 weeksSupport the show Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast A free & easy way to support my show is to review Interesting Humans Podcast on Apple Podcasts.t’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and it helps others discover it, too. You can follow, watch, listen and connect with me here: TikTok :: YOUTUBE :: Facebook :: Instagram Thank you for being part of the Interesting Humans Podcast community! ❤️ I truly appreciate your support. Jeff Hopeck, Host

    2h 18m
  5. Ep. 55: 4ocean (Plastic Islands & Panic at 150 ft.)

    MAY 7

    Ep. 55: 4ocean (Plastic Islands & Panic at 150 ft.)

    Summary In this episode, Tony Ernst from Four Ocean shares his journey from waste management to leading ocean cleanup efforts. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in their operations, detailing the extensive documentation required for every cleanup. Tony discusses the equipment and partnerships that enable their work, the daily operations in South Florida, and the human element involved in their cleanup efforts. He also shares insights into the types of trash collected, the sorting and recycling process, and the challenges faced in waste management. Finally, Tony recounts personal close calls in diving, highlighting the importance of safety and respect for the ocean. In this engaging conversation, Tony Ernst shares his experiences with sharks, emphasizing their majestic nature and the importance of understanding them. He discusses the mission of Four Oceans, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ocean cleanup and fighting plastic pollution. The conversation delves into the challenges of ocean conservation, the role of consumer behavior in sustainability, and the need for transparency in nonprofit operations. Ernst highlights the importance of community engagement and the innovative ways they are addressing the plastic crisis, including creating products from ocean debris. In this conversation, Tony Ernst discusses the critical role of personal responsibility in waste management, the innovative technologies being utilized for ocean cleanup, and the impact of river pollution on marine environments. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the role of nonprofits in addressing these issues. The discussion also touches on the intersection of politics and environmental efforts, the challenges of scaling cleanup operations, and the emotional toll of working in this field. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the passion and dedication of those involved in the cleanup movement and the need for continued awareness and action. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Four Ocean and Tony Ernst 02:50 Tony's Journey to Four Ocean 06:28 The Importance of Transparency in Cleanup Efforts 10:05 The Equipment and Partnerships Behind Four Ocean 12:56 Daily Operations and Community Engagement 14:42 The Human Element in Ocean Cleanup 15:58 The Volume and Types of Trash Collected 17:21 Sorting and Recycling Process 19:34 Challenges in Recycling and Waste Management 20:52 Close Calls and Lessons Learned in Diving 31:03 Shark Encounters: Understanding the Majestic Creatures 35:10 The Rol Volleybird Subscription BoxesVolleybird.shop for curated pickleball subscription boxes delivered every 8 weeksSupport the show Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast A free & easy way to support my show is to review Interesting Humans Podcast on Apple Podcasts.t’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and it helps others discover it, too. You can follow, watch, listen and connect with me here: TikTok :: YOUTUBE :: Facebook :: Instagram Thank you for being part of the Interesting Humans Podcast community! ❤️ I truly appreciate your support. Jeff Hopeck, Host

    1h 24m
  6. Ep. 53: 437 lb. Lie He Told Himself Every Day

    APR 23

    Ep. 53: 437 lb. Lie He Told Himself Every Day

    👀 437lbs down to 205lbs. Listen to Keith Brock's inspirational story that began with a couch 🛋️ in Miami, FL and a gut-wrenching event that sparked lasting change in his life. One moment he was living the life of a 437 pound frustrated and miserable human being. The next moment he turned his life over and walked out of his old body. Some incredible highlights of this episode with Keith include: 1) he dropped 2 1/2 shoe sizes, but this is just one of the many fascinating bodily changes that took place in his life 2) the weight loss was the easy part, it was something else that was much more difficult to overcome  3) the psychological requirements prior to his life-saving surgery 4) the difference between cash pay and insurance pricing 😱 for his procedure 5) eating tips for busy people and those who eat out regularly 6) a phenomenal tip to continue eating dessert despite needing to weigh-in weekly Regardless of your struggle in life, this episode delivers great encouragement, motivation, and real-life tips that will spark change in even the most hopeless situations. Enjoy the episode!   Volleybird Subscription BoxesVolleybird.shop for curated pickleball subscription boxes delivered every 8 weeksSupport the show Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast A free & easy way to support my show is to review Interesting Humans Podcast on Apple Podcasts.t’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and it helps others discover it, too. You can follow, watch, listen and connect with me here: TikTok :: YOUTUBE :: Facebook :: Instagram Thank you for being part of the Interesting Humans Podcast community! ❤️ I truly appreciate your support. Jeff Hopeck, Host

    1h 14m
  7. Ep. 52: TOPGUN Pilot to Renowned High School Teacher

    APR 17

    Ep. 52: TOPGUN Pilot to Renowned High School Teacher

    Ray Schenk : The ultimate story of a Top Gun pilot turned high school teacher, whose classes all have waiting lists to get into.  Ray’s approach to modern day education, finding and developing leaders for the next generation and his keen sense of using AI & Robotics in the classroom have all landed him on Episode 52 of The 🎙️ Interesting Humans Podcast. He has a proven approach to consistently raising the bar for students so they can tap into their fullest learning potentials.  He is unique and very interesting. Here are some of the discussion points you will learn about in this episode:  🖥️ Girl coders - What’s causing the spike, why girls are so effective at coding   0️⃣ Zero Trust approach to cybersecurity ✈️ E2C Hawkeye Pilot 🚀 Top Gun & Top Dome school  ⚔️ Advanced warfare school  🚨Enhanced interrogation techniques (His experience and training with different methods) ⚙️Quantum Resistance Model (cryptographic algorithms that can withstand attacks from quantum computers) Microsoft featured his school as one of the top schools in America using AI and large learning models in his classrooms.  Volleybird Subscription BoxesVolleybird.shop for curated pickleball subscription boxes delivered every 8 weeksSupport the show Help us keep bringing you the best new and unseen content - buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/interestinghumanspodcast A free & easy way to support my show is to review Interesting Humans Podcast on Apple Podcasts.t’s a chance to tell us what you love about the show and it helps others discover it, too. You can follow, watch, listen and connect with me here: TikTok :: YOUTUBE :: Facebook :: Instagram Thank you for being part of the Interesting Humans Podcast community! ❤️ I truly appreciate your support. Jeff Hopeck, Host

    1h 42m
    4.8
    out of 5
    18 Ratings

    About

    🎙️Real life stories you need to hear. Hosted by Jeff Hopeck, former U.S. Secret Service Officer.  Episodes include: ⚔️ Retired FBI Agent - SOLVED: Most gruesome display of human depravity 🩸Bloody Sunday Survivor + MLK Protege 🏥 Survivor "Mother of All Surgeries" 📸 TikTok Mega-influencer 4 million followers ♣️ 2015 World Series of Poker Champion ♦️  🧠 Brain Surgeon – Behind the scenes 👀 Blind at 21 – Harvard. Coder. Skier ⚾ Jeff Francoeur – MLB star to sports broadcaster 🧠 12-Year Glioblastoma Survivor ⚔️ Retired U.S. Secret Service Agents 💉 Oxycontin & Heroin – From addiction to redemption 🇺🇸 WW2 Vet 👨‍⚕️ Trauma & Burn Surgeon – ER lessons ✈️ F-18 Pilot – The adrenaline-fueled life at Mach speed 🦈 Robert Herjavec’s (Shark Tank) CEO – Life + Business 🏈 Randy Cross – NFL Super Bowls & CBS Sports legend

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