The Witness: In His Own Words

Very well done, a harrowing and heartbreaking tale. I happen to be a retired NYPD Detective from the Bronx, and have seen so many many young peoples lives shattered by drug gangs and life on the streets. I am so happy Joe was able to survive this ordeal, and hopefully encourage and help others to find some peace, and redemption. Good luck to you and your family in everything you do Joe. And thanks to this podcast and your author and publisher for getting your story out.

The amount of psychological and physical trauma this kid has gone through is palpable in his re-telling of his story. He is re-living the abuse he endured. To still be able to do the right thing and then to have the courage to testify. I wish him healing, peace and security.

This story is one I still think about a while after finishing. It’s impossible not to want to invite Joey over for dinner & want to good for him. Around episode 7 or 8 when he tells the story of sitting his exams in the interview room of the police station is the first & only time in the story you hear actual joy in his voice. He laughs, remembering the bizarre incident & what the officers did to help him. I lost it at that point, realizing how rare it was for him to experience raw kindness & lack of judgement. Joey doesn’t call himself a victim. He is very matter of fact about how the butterfly effect of one small action sent his life on this unfortunate journey. I hope so much that Joey, who is still young dammit, finds some peace from all the trauma & can live the life he really deserves.

I began listening to this podcast not knowing anything about Joseph O'Callaghan and his remarkable story. Told in a raw, honest, and in many ways, innocent voice but with so much underlying courage, perseverance, strength, and the will to do the right thing every step of the way. By the end, I was shaken to my core and left speechless. One of a handful of podcasts that touched me so deeply and so profoundly.