Almost 50 years ago, a stranger’s simple question gave her safety — and an example she’s tried to follow ever since.

Today's episode includes references to suicide. If you or a loved one is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. If you live in the United States, you can text or call the suicide hotline 988. If you live outside of the U.S., go to open counseling.com to find your local help line.

Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org.

Some guidance:

--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget.

--Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.

--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.

--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.

--If your hero were standing in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

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In 2008, Kate was living in California when that state's voters passed Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage. It made her feeling unwelcome, as if her love for her partner was being demonized. One morning on her way to work, she saw an older man standing alone on the train platform, holding a sign against Prop 8. His small act of solidarity offered her comfort when she felt most vulnerable.

Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org.

Some guidance:

--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget.

--Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.

--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.

--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.

--If your hero were standing in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In high school, Elizabeth’s choir solo ended in embarrassment after her high note came booming through the mic. But an older student’s kind words restored her confidence just when she needed it.

Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org.

Some guidance:

--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget.

--Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.

--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.

--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.

--If your hero were standing in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.