Podcast Summary: "My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark" - Episode 486: "Take These From Me"

Release Date: June 26, 2025
Hosts: Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
Network: Exactly Right Podcast Network

In Episode 486, titled "Take These From Me," Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark delve into themes of community resilience, heroism in the face of disaster, and extraordinary stories that emerge from moments of crisis. This episode intertwines discussions on organized community actions against kidnappings, a compelling book recommendation, a detailed recount of the United Airlines Flight 232 disaster, and the inspiring tale of Smokey, a World War II hero dog.

1. Community Resilience and Action Against Kidnapping

Timestamp: [02:07 - 05:02]

Karen and Georgia open the episode by addressing the rising incidents of kidnappings and the empowering response from communities, particularly in Los Angeles. Georgia shares a poignant story from TikTok about a woman who was saved by four community members posing as ICE agents.

Georgia Hardstark [02:28]:
"It was like in the parking lot of a car wash... they basically saved this woman from being kidnapped."

Karen expresses immense pride in the community's proactive stance, emphasizing the importance of grassroots efforts in ensuring safety and solidarity.

Karen Kilgariff [03:12]:
"I know. I'm so fucking proud of our city... you just do what you can because you... feel powerless."

Key Takeaway:
The hosts highlight the critical role of community vigilance and support, urging listeners to engage with and support local nonprofits to foster safer neighborhoods.

2. Book Recommendation: "Working Stiff" by Dr. Judy Melaniek

Timestamp: [05:23 - 11:16]

Transitioning into literary recommendations, Karen introduces "Working Stiff," a gripping memoir by Dr. Judy Melaniek, detailing her experiences as a medical examiner during the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Karen Kilgariff [05:23]:
"It's so murderino. It's so good... with that caveat."

The book explores the challenges of handling mass casualties and maintaining composure under extreme pressure. Georgia discusses the emotional toll such narratives can have on readers, advocating for mindful consumption of intense true crime content.

Georgia Hardstark [05:55]:
"You also get to dip out of it when you want to dip out."

Key Takeaway:
"Working Stiff" is recommended as a compelling yet emotionally taxing read, suitable for true crime enthusiasts who can manage the intensity it presents.

3. The Tragedy and Heroism of United Airlines Flight 232

Timestamp: [16:34 - 55:17]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to recounting the harrowing story of United Airlines Flight 232, which crashed on July 19, 1989, in Sioux City, Iowa. The hosts provide a detailed narrative of the events leading up to the crash, the crew's extraordinary efforts to control the aircraft, and the miraculous survival of 184 passengers out of 297.

Key Events:

• Initial Disaster
  Timestamp: [16:34 - 19:08]
  The plane experiences a catastrophic failure when a fan blade breaks off, leading to a loss of hydraulic control. Captain Al Haynes and co-pilot Bill Records struggle to stabilize the aircraft.

  Captain Al Haynes [35:52]:
  "We went to Sioux City because that's where the airplane went. We didn't have enough control to put it down in any place in particular."

• Crew's Heroic Efforts
  Timestamp: [22:07 - 32:34]
  Off-duty pilot Captain Denny Fitch offers invaluable assistance. Their collaborative efforts are pivotal in attempting to land the crippled DC10.

  Jan Brown [32:34]:
  "All eyes are on flight attendants when something happens to see how we're reacting so the passengers know how to react themselves."

• Crash and Aftermath
  Timestamp: [39:53 - 54:12]
  Despite their best efforts, the plane crashes into a cornfield. Survivors recount experiences of chaos, fire, and loss. Notably, flight attendant Jan Brown becomes an advocate for child safety on planes following the tragedy.

  Jan Brown [53:49]:
  "That's what I can do for Evan to make sure he's not forgotten."

Survivor Stories:

• Jerry Schemmel's Rescue
  Timestamp: [46:10 - 47:29]
  Jerry, a passenger, rescues a baby girl from the wreckage, highlighting personal heroism amidst disaster.

  Jerry Schemmel [46:10]:
  "I scooped her out with one arm, and as soon as I touched her and put her in my arm, she stopped crying."

Post-Disaster Legacy:

The crew received national acclaim, and several survivors carried the emotional scars. Jan Brown's advocacy led to policy changes enhancing child safety on commercial flights.

Georgia Hardstark [05:02]:
"There's no empathy for the lady... but talking about it is not acting like that."

Key Takeaway:
The story exemplifies exceptional human resilience, teamwork, and leadership in the face of unimaginable adversity, leaving a lasting impact on aviation safety protocols.

4. Smokey the WWII Hero Dog

Timestamp: [55:17 - 73:22]

Shifting gears, Karen and Georgia narrate the inspiring tale of Smokey, a teacup Yorkshire terrier who served heroically alongside American soldiers in World War II. Found abandoned in a foxhole on New Guinea, Smokey becomes a source of comfort and ingenuity, proving indispensable in critical missions.

Story Highlights:

• Adoption and Bonding
  Timestamp: [55:17 - 63:11]
  Soldier Bill Wynn unexpectedly adopts Smokey, whose presence notably improves troop morale amidst harsh conditions.

  Georgia Hardstark [68:11]:
  "Bill says, 'She was the first therapy dog... a real spirit lifter.'"

• Heroic Acts
  Timestamp: [63:05 - 73:22]
  Smokey performs multiple acts of bravery, including a pivotal mission during the Luzone campaign where she aids in constructing essential communication lines under enemy fire.

  Karen Kilgariff [68:08]:
  "She started singing to cheer up the wounded soldiers... she was a real spirit lifter."

Legacy:

Smokey becomes a celebrated figure, inspiring the establishment of therapy dog programs and leading to a renewed interest in Yorkshire terriers post-war.

Georgia Hardstark [55:17]:
"The crew of Flight 232 become national heroes overnight..."

Key Takeaway:
Smokey's story underscores the profound impact animals can have on human morale and showcases the sometimes-overlooked roles that pets and assistance animals play in critical situations.

5. Conclusion

Timestamp: [73:34 - 75:54]

Karen and Georgia wrap up the episode by reflecting on the stories shared, emphasizing the themes of bravery, resilience, and the extraordinary in everyday heroes—both human and animal. They encourage listeners to find inspiration in these tales and to support their communities and the animals that bring joy and support to our lives.

Georgia Hardstark [75:54]:
"Stay sexy and don't get murdered."

Final Thoughts:

Episode 486 of "My Favorite Murder" masterfully interweaves narratives of human and animal heroism, underscoring the podcast's unique blend of true crime, heartfelt storytelling, and occasional moments of levity. Through the harrowing recount of United Airlines Flight 232 and the uplifting story of Smokey the therapy dog, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark honor acts of bravery and resilience that leave a lasting impact on both individuals and society.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Georgia Hardstark [02:28]:
  "It was like in the parking lot of a car wash... they basically saved this woman from being kidnapped."

• Karen Kilgariff [03:12]:
  "I know. I'm so fucking proud of our city... you just do what you can because you... feel powerless."

• Karen Kilgariff [05:23]:
  "It's so murderino. It's so good... with that caveat."

• Georgia Hardstark [05:55]:
  "You also get to dip out of it when you want to dip out."

• Captain Al Haynes [35:52]:
  "We went to Sioux City because that's where the airplane went. We didn't have enough control to put it down in any place in particular."

• Jan Brown [53:49]:
  "That's what I can do for Evan to make sure he's not forgotten."

• Jerry Schemmel [46:10]:
  "I scooped her out with one arm, and as soon as I touched her and put her in my arm, she stopped crying."

• Georgia Hardstark [05:02]:
  "There's no empathy for the lady... but talking about it is not acting like that."

• Georgia Hardstark [68:11]:
  "Bill says, 'She was the first therapy dog... a real spirit lifter.'"

• Georgia Hardstark [55:17]:
  "The crew of Flight 232 become national heroes overnight..."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of Episode 486, highlighting key discussions, emotional narratives, and inspiring stories shared by Karen and Georgia. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to "My Favorite Murder," this episode offers profound insights into human and animal courage and the enduring impact of heroic actions.