63. More Than Meets the Ear
How Odyssey impacts the fans.
By David Hilder | February 28, 2024
How Odyssey impacts the fans.
By David Hilder | February 28, 2024
We all have an Odyssey story. We’ve all been personally impacted in some way by this amazing show. As dedicated listeners of Adventures in Odyssey, we know it’s more than just an audio drama. It’s something special.
This past January, AIO Update ran the My Odyssey Story contest, in which fans had the opportunity to share their stories of how Adventures in Odyssey has impacted them. Twenty-two people participated! Many of these stories were shared online on Facebook at that time, but not all.
Now it’s time to continue the celebration of Odyssey’s positive impact with a special article. This article features excerpts from all twenty-two entries. It’s a way to remember the many reasons why we love Odyssey, and the many perspectives that fans have. Some personal stories touch on more serious topics, so be aware of that. It’s wonderful to see how, in dark times, God has used Odyssey to be a light.
So, let’s get into the stories!
When was your first time listening to Odyssey? Though the show is officially geared for kids in the 8-12 age range, people can listen at any age. E.Z. C. writes, “I was four years old in 1990 and got a Chick-fil-A kid’s meal. The prize was a cassette tape. On it was a single episode of a show I had never heard. The episode was called The Day Independence Came. I loved it and listened to it more than once. Very shortly thereafter, I discovered that every weekday at 5:30 my local radio station would play this show.”
This has to be the classic way to get introduced to Odyssey back in the day. Over the years I’ve heard Chick-fil-A feature in a number of Odyssey fan stories, so it must have been a successful promotion. Imagine just wanting a chicken sandwich and then being introduced to the world of Adventures in Odyssey, affecting your life forever after. Sounds like a good deal to me. They should bring back that promotion.
Aurora R. found her way to Odyssey in another old-school way: the radio. She writes, “When I was eight years old, my family and I moved to a new house and I switched schools. I didn't know anybody in my new neighborhood or school, and I missed my old friends terribly. One evening, I remember being bored and feeling a bit lonely. I noticed the small red and black radio sitting on my kitchen table and decided to turn it on. Perhaps a catchy song would be playing. I was immediately immersed in a story where a boy and a girl with a sweet voice had found bones in a cave. Their names were Dwayne and Julie, and they believed that the bones belonged to Bigfoot . . . This was the first time I heard Adventures in Odyssey, and I began to listen to the show every weekday at 6:30 pm and every Saturday at 8:00 AM for the rest of my childhood.”
The episode No Bones About It, featuring Bigfoot, a.k.a. a guy with a straw hat and skateboard, is a great way to get introduced to Odyssey. Interestingly, this episode was mentioned in an entry last year as well. Maybe because it stands out as such a fun show. Bart and Rodney Rathbone take their scheming to a new level in this story, and it backfires in a hilarious way. If you’re looking for a comedic adventure to introduce a new listener to the show, you can’t go wrong with this episode.
Similarly, Odyssey was also a part of Sarah F.’s childhood. She writes, “I am 20 years old, and my childhood best friend introduced me to AIO when I was 10. We were going through a period of drifting apart due to different interests and natural changes at that age, but I still went over every day and we would quietly listen to AIO together and work on our own little projects. It kept us together. I moved across the country three years later, and that friend has since fallen away from her faith and no longer speaks to me. It breaks my heart, but listening to AIO brings me back to her and reminds me of those times we would merely sit in each other’s company and be transported away to Odyssey, together.”
We are all on a journey. Even good memories can be mixed with heartbreak. But as Odyssey co-creator Phil Lollar often says, remember where you are in the story. We have to remember that the story isn’t over yet. Whether you’re ten or twenty, forty or eighty, God is working together all things for your good, for the good of those who love him, and for his glory.
Though many fans get introduced to Odyssey as kids, others become fans as adults. Hannah S. writes, “One day, at nineteen years old, I overheard the episode Over the Airwaves playing on someone else's device. I had been in an extended season of intense burnout on just about every level possible: spiritually, mentally, physically, emotionally, practically. But listening to The Young Guns Bonanza skit in particular did something very unusual for me at that time: it made me laugh. It engaged my attention in a spiritual lesson without shaming or dismissing me. I decided I had to find more of this content, and I was blown away! I had not realized the scope of the show, or that episodes were even still being produced! I devoured every episode I could find and used them to ground myself when I was spiraling.”
It’s amazing how God’s gift of laughter can impact us. It seems like the Odyssey cast and crew have a great time making the show, and I’m sure The Young Guns Bonanza skit was no exception. Their fun and joy somehow get transported to us via the airwaves, and we can share in it. And I love that the writers put in humor not just for the kids, but for the adults too.
Adventures in Odyssey is clearly for all ages. Marisa L. writes, “You often hear people say ‘Adventures in Odyssey? Yeah, I used to love those as a kid!’ But the older I get, the more I realize that AIO is not just a kid’s show. It’s a family show with lessons that can be applicable to all ages. Even now, as a college student, I’ll be listening to AIO and a moment will just strike me. Sometimes I’ll just be living life and something happens that makes me think ‘Oh, this happened to Connie!’ So not only did AIO help me make the final decision for my major and future career, but it continues to impact my life in the complicated truths it presents in a simple, entertaining manner.”
If you’ve ever worried about being late for work, you might relate to Connie Kendall. Whit, Connie, and Eugene are more than just characters. We’ve come to know them, to appreciate all their quirks, to relate to them. When you’ve listened to Odyssey long enough, you feel almost like they’re real people.
Rose B. writes, “Growing up, I always enjoyed Eugene, but it wasn't until I was older did I truly appreciate the character. I love that, particularly in the early episodes, Eugene was always up to try new things (things he wouldn't usually be interested in), like camping and ice fishing. He was generally always optimistic and had a great attitude, even when Bernard and Tom made their typical wisecracks about him. He was just happy to be there and be included.
All Eugene ever wanted was to feel like he belonged. I relate to that a lot. I always wanted a place where I felt like I belonged. And this community has given me that.”
Before reading Rose’s story, I had honestly never thought of Eugene in that way. And I thought I knew him pretty well. But it totally makes sense. Eugene Meltsner really is looking for his place, how he fits in. Knowing that gives me a whole new appreciation, and empathy, for him as a character.
Kaylynn G. also writes about a connection with Eugene, among other characters. She says, “Eugene taught me that it’s okay to be different and to embrace those differences. Jason taught me to be brave. Jack Allen taught me that God is always there, even in the darkest moments. Wooton - it’s okay to embrace your silly side.”
It’s amazing how realistic these characters feel, even whimsical Wooton Bassett. The writers could have simply made him all comic relief, but his character has a complexity that you can’t miss. We hear that especially in his care and concern for Grady, and in more recent years in his attentiveness to his wife Penny.
There are too many stand-out characters to name. Each and every one of them has contributed to make Adventures in Odyssey what it is today. Christina L. writes, “The Barclay's taught me how to be a good money steward and to budget accordingly. On that same tangent, Barrett Jones taught me the importance of tithing. First Love gave me strength to get out of a bad relationship and gave me the comfort afterwards. Tales of Moderation taught me not to be attached to worldly things. Henny actually turned me off from drugs as a teen! 😆 Lawrence Hodges taught me to live with wonder and imagination. Aubrey showed me the importance of choosing good friends. Bernard brought to life so many Bible stories that have now become my favorites. Whit has become my second conscience and in sticky situations I find myself asking, ‘Well what would Whit do?’, or ‘How would he handle this situation?’”
What Would Whit Do? That needs to be on a T-shirt. John Avery Whittaker is someone we can all look up to. His warm voice, first brought to life by actor Hal Smith, was a big part of my childhood and will always hold so much nostalgia.
E.Z. C. writes, “Being blind, of course, radio drama as we called it at the time, it was the perfect form of entertainment for me, but more than that, the characters were as real to me as my own family. Mr. Whittaker reminded me so much of my grandfather. They both could fix anything and could do anything and made amazing milkshakes. I had a very idyllic childhood, other than when I was at the state school for the blind for the first four years of my education. I was very unhappy there, and the folks in Odyssey were really like family and friends to me.”
There is so much comfort in these stories, and so many lessons that have been taught during the show’s run of three and a half decades. Let’s get into some specific episodes! Hannah W. writes, “Odyssey taught me how to set boundaries (Between You and Me), to love others and show compassion and empathy when I find someone that is hard to get along with (The Greatest of These), and to trust in God, even when everything feels like it’s falling apart (Novacom).” Leah M. says, “Episodes that bring you to the middle of a Bible story like with OT Action News and the Imagination Station are the ones that have helped me commit the Bible to memory. Whenever I read about Ahab and Jezebel, Joseph, and Esther, I can hear the actors in my head, telling me the story once again. Now, as an adult, I get the chance to tell Bible stories to children, and I can’t help but express them in the way I first heard them --through Adventures in Odyssey.” Truly H. writes, “They are told in such a way that you could see it, by using your imagination, actually happen. This is what makes the scenarios and characters so relatable. Such is my experience in an episode called “Blood, Sweat, and Fears.” I, like Eugene, hate needles, though not to the extent of Eugene’s phobia, but I do worry myself sick when I know I will have to get blood drawn or get a shot. But through that episode, I was reminded that ‘It’s okay, normal even, to have fears, but we should face them, and when we do, we may even realize that there’s nothing to be afraid of.’”
During a stressful time, Elizabeth E. turned to a certain Odyssey episode for comfort. She writes, “One day I listened to The Great Wishy Woz. I was brought to tears thinking about Mandy, how her parents were heading for a divorce, her brother rebelling, and that she could do nothing to change it. But as I listened to this wonderful play that she had written of her search for help and her finally finding it in the Fisherman, "Mr. IAm", I was brought to tears of thankfulness. The Fisherman brought Mandy back into the storm, saying that it was the only way. But also promising to be with her through everything, that He knew everything that was going on. I love Mandy's song at the end, ‘Always your words are true. Always you love me too. Always, for all of time... Always. Always.’ This song and story carried me through that summer. And often I still think of this song if I am in one of life's storms and I am comforted that Christ knows everything that is going on, that He is with me, and that His plans are good even when they don't feel like it.”
Reading Elizabeth’s story was a wonderful reminder. I had completely forgotten about that song, but it carries a profound truth. I had also never made the connection between the Fisherman bringing Mandy through the storm, and the later story arc with Mandy’s parents. But it’s a brilliant connection in hindsight, and makes The Great Wishy Woz that much more meaningful.
A recent story arc that was meaningful for a lot of listeners was Olivia’s faith arc. Jasmine M. writes, “One of the ways that Adventures in Odyssey has impacted me over the recent years was through “The Lost One Arc” storylines that focused on Olivia’s spiritual journey through a period of questioning her faith. I had doubts if God still loved me even though I had sinned and thought that I was forgiven. It was through the storylines that I learned that God loves us no matter what we have been through, from a loss to a sin, God will never stop loving us.” Amanda J. writes, “It is hard to pick one story, but one story that stood out to me was Olivia’s faith journey. Olivia had to struggle with God’s sovereignty even though it didn’t make sense. Satan had twisted Olivia’s fears into doubt that God could be trusted, just as he has done from the beginning. Growing up in a Christian home like Olivia, my faith seemed more head knowledge than a heart relationship with Jesus. When I was teenager in high school, I came face to face with the fact I didn’t know if I had accepted Christ as my savior. I couldn’t remember. One night I knew I needed to know for sure. I asked God to forgive me of sin and I asked Jesus to come into my heart and save me. Olivia’s fear that God would not hear her anymore felt like someone had seen into my thoughts. I praise the Lord that God’s grace is dependent on Him, and not on my efforts.”
Episodes dealing with grief, such as Life Expectancy, have also had a powerful impact on listeners. Kaylynn G. writes, “The show has been there for me in my lowest moments and my best moments. When I have lost friends it was my comfort, when I had nightmares it was one of the few things that helped. When my appendix burst and we didn’t know until a week after, it was my go-to for comfort and sleep. Life Expectancy came out around the same time my Mimi passed away and it helped me to cope with the pain of losing one of my favorite people in the world. I had a miscarriage in 2020 and when I couldn’t sleep and felt like my world was crashing down AIO was there.”
Nicholas S. writes, “On Saturday, September 28, (after Jungle Jam, Life On The Pond, and Brinkman Adventures) there was a new episode called Life Expectancy in which Connie's mother unexpectedly (to Connie and the audience if no one else) passes away. I listened to it thinking it was sad and unexpected, but I didn't think anything else at the time. That is, I didn't think much about it until the following Wednesday when I learned that one of my college friends and one of the godliest men I knew had spent his Saturday on a camping trip in which he jumped into a river and never resurfaced. Unbeknownst to me, this all happened approximately as I was listening to Odyssey. As Mrs. Hooper would say, it's a terrible age to lose someone. However, God was able to use this radio program's coincidental timing (as if we believed in coincidences) to bring me comfort in a way that nothing else could have.”
Kianna K. writes, “There’s not just one episode that is meaningful to me. There’s different themes and story lines that have recently been meaningful to me, starting with my grief journey after losing my Dad, episodes with grief have been relatable. I related with how Connie and Donna dealt with their grief! And I think Odyssey portrays grief in such a real way! And I also struggle with anxiety, so Odyssey is a comfort in that too! An episode that is recently extra special to me is Hymn Writers episodes with stories behind the song are some of my favorite and I hope there’s more episodes like that in the future!”
God has used Adventures in Odyssey to speak into our lives when we need it most. Hannah S. writes, “One day I was listening to The Mortal Coil, and felt the prodding conviction of the Holy Spirit at Tom Riley’s words to Whit, as he lay in a coma: “[Death] is not a door we should pass through unless God says it’s time to go.” God knew what no one else knew: I was planning my exit. I felt abandoned by God and everyone, like I was losing my sanity, and I could not go on. At the time that I first heard that episode, I, like Eugene in the episode, resisted God’s urging at first. My plans were continually thwarted until the Lord finally brought me to my knees in surrender. Whether I realized it or not, God reminded me of His presence and call on my life through Tom Riley’s words. I have no doubt that the miraculous grace of God drew me out of that deep darkness, and continues to carry me through life's ups and downs.”
When I read Hannah’s story, I was deeply moved. God really is so good, reaching out to us in the most unexpected ways. I already had a great appreciation for The Mortal Coil episodes, but now I think I’ll experience them differently. When Tom says that line, voiced with so much meaning by actor Walker Edmiston, I don’t think I’ll be able to forget how God used those words in Hannah’s life.
Darren G. writes about how God has used Odyssey to change the lives of kids at the Christian camp he worked at as a counselor. He says, “One particularly memorable time was listening to The Imagination Station and a couple of my campers took time to reflect on the part with Barabbas where he is set free and the guard says, “You're free to go, Barabbas. Jesus has taken your place.” This provided some great discussion about what Jesus did for us and it is wonderful to be with campers when that becomes real for them and they submit to God’s promptings for the first time.”
What a special experience, to be with kids when they accept Jesus. What an honor and a privilege. And I’m sure the cast and crew of Odyssey would be honored to know that God has used their work for his plans and purposes. The truths brought up in Adventures in Odyssey truly have eternal significance.
And those truths continue to show up in the show’s latest episodes. More recently, the Odyssey team put together Album 75, a sendoff and a love-letter to Eugene Meltsner and actor Will Ryan. True B. writes, “The four-parter, The Best is Yet to Come, rocked our world this past summer. I was shocked and heartbroken when I found out Will Ryan had passed, so I was anxious to see how the Odyssey team would handle Eugene and honor Will. I listened to the episodes weekly, and I was very nervous when Part 4 was released. I sobbed throughout the episode, especially during Bernard and Eugene’s speeches and the final scene with Mr. Whittaker and Connie. I cried even more as I was reminded of my experiences. When my family moved from my childhood home to be closer to church a couple of years ago, it was hard for me. The Meltsners’ move to Baltimore reminded me of how we’re supposed to go wherever God calls us, even if it means leaving what is comfortable. I related so much to the Meltsners’ situation, and through these episodes, even though it was hard, I learned how we are to go wherever we’re called in faith and to remember that the best is yet to come.”
The best is yet to come. As Christians, we believe that. We know God is working everything together, bringing about his ultimate plans. And yes, a little radio show that began in 1987 is included in that. Adventures in Odyssey may not be world-famous, and it certainly doesn’t have all the awards and accolades and recognition that it deserves. But God’s using it somehow. And one day, I believe, we’ll all see the full extent of how God has used Odyssey to impact people’s lives.
One tangible way, which we can already see, is how Odyssey has brought people together. The shows brings families closer to each other, and has generated a community of fans online. Crystal C. writes, “Now my kid (11) is an avid listener and we talk about the characters, situations, or what we think almost every day. Now that they have a streaming service she can listen to it every night and most of the day, so it's been the thing we've bonded over the most. As she enters those teen years and gets her own interests, sometimes it's harder to relate to things she's interested in, but we still have Odyssey.”
Emily W. writes, “Adventures in Odyssey has impacted my life by keeping me close with my family. When Covid first started four years ago I couldn't see my family for a long time after I went into long-term care. My younger sister and I came up with a system where we could listen to Odyssey together over the phone. It gave us a reason to talk to each other. I have a lot of siblings who are going in a lot of different directions and Odyssey is one of our common interests. One of my other sisters and I started an Odyssey podcast. While we have taken a break from it recently, I'm hoping to get it started up again. I enjoyed working on it with her. Odyssey has also helped me memorize Scripture and develop my auditory learning skills. I am very thankful for these special stories and characters that continue to inspire my creativity and strengthen family ties.”
Odyssey brings people together. Brian C. even met his spouse through the Odyssey fandom, and then named his child Reagan Avery. He writes, “Yes, the Avery is for a certain John Avery Whittaker that brought us together.” E.Z. C. writes, “Now, even in my 30s I still listen almost literally every day, I have made so many friends, seriously, some of the best friends that I have ever had, which is an answer to prayer that goes back to the days in the blind school when I would cry myself to sleep, hoping I would find one person in my life who knew what this show was and loved it as much as I did. All of those friends have come from this group. I talk to a lot of you every single day, you know my ups, and my downs, and my joys, and my sorrows and vice versa, and through it all, the connecting thread of a place of wonder, excitement, and discovery never leaves our conversations.”
Rose B. writes, “Adventures in Odyssey has impacted my life in many ways throughout my years of listening. It was a huge comfort to me when I was going through a dark time with anxiety. But the Odyssey community and all the people I have met along the way (because of Odyssey) have made an even bigger impact. I adore the show, but I love the people that have come from it even more. 💛”
Adventures in Odyssey people are our kind of people. Growing up, I didn’t have any friends who listened to Odyssey. And if I told people about it, they were usually convinced that AIO was just for kids. But as we’ve seen in these stories, that is hardly the case. It was last summer that I got more involved with the online fan community on Facebook and Instagram, and it’s been better than I ever expected. The conversations I’ve had, the people I’ve met online—it’s all been so fun and meaningful. To be a part of this fan community is the best, and I’m so thankful to Odyssey for it.
Steven H. writes, “When I first heard about AIO I thought it didn't sound very interesting. I was used to action and adventure on television and all the different types of comic books that I could get ahold of. But after I heard about AIO I learned that there was a lot more than meets the ears; I fell in love with AIO and all the characters that are on the show. It was such a great way to learn about how all the different forms of media affect our lives. I appreciate all the lessons that I have been able to learn and my family from listening to this show. I am so thankful for all those that do the work to get AIO out to the masses.”
Thank you, Adventures in Odyssey. Thank you to the whole team, cast and crew. Thank you for bringing us this one-of-a-kind show, and for bringing us together with other fans who love these stories.
Thank you to each and every one who contributed your personal stories this past month. I was blown away by what you all shared. It was so heartfelt and touching. Because of what you shared, I won’t look at Adventures in Odyssey the same way. You all helped us fall in love with Odyssey a little more, and with this community of fans.
And thank you for reading. If you’ve gotten this far, then you are a true fan. If you’re not already connected with the Adventures in Odyssey Fan Club on Facebook, consider joining! It’s the best place to be on the internet. You’ll find your people there, and we’d be happy to have you.
This past January, AIO Update ran the My Odyssey Story contest, in which fans had the opportunity to share their stories of how Adventures in Odyssey has impacted them. Twenty-two people participated! Many of these stories were shared online on Facebook at that time, but not all.
Now it’s time to continue the celebration of Odyssey’s positive impact with a special article. This article features excerpts from all twenty-two entries. It’s a way to remember the many reasons why we love Odyssey, and the many perspectives that fans have. Some personal stories touch on more serious topics, so be aware of that. It’s wonderful to see how, in dark times, God has used Odyssey to be a light.
So, let’s get into the stories!
When was your first time listening to Odyssey? Though the show is officially geared for kids in the 8-12 age range, people can listen at any age. E.Z. C. writes, “I was four years old in 1990 and got a Chick-fil-A kid’s meal. The prize was a cassette tape. On it was a single episode of a show I had never heard. The episode was called The Day Independence Came. I loved it and listened to it more than once. Very shortly thereafter, I discovered that every weekday at 5:30 my local radio station would play this show.”
This has to be the classic way to get introduced to Odyssey back in the day. Over the years I’ve heard Chick-fil-A feature in a number of Odyssey fan stories, so it must have been a successful promotion. Imagine just wanting a chicken sandwich and then being introduced to the world of Adventures in Odyssey, affecting your life forever after. Sounds like a good deal to me. They should bring back that promotion.
Aurora R. found her way to Odyssey in another old-school way: the radio. She writes, “When I was eight years old, my family and I moved to a new house and I switched schools. I didn't know anybody in my new neighborhood or school, and I missed my old friends terribly. One evening, I remember being bored and feeling a bit lonely. I noticed the small red and black radio sitting on my kitchen table and decided to turn it on. Perhaps a catchy song would be playing. I was immediately immersed in a story where a boy and a girl with a sweet voice had found bones in a cave. Their names were Dwayne and Julie, and they believed that the bones belonged to Bigfoot . . . This was the first time I heard Adventures in Odyssey, and I began to listen to the show every weekday at 6:30 pm and every Saturday at 8:00 AM for the rest of my childhood.”
The episode No Bones About It, featuring Bigfoot, a.k.a. a guy with a straw hat and skateboard, is a great way to get introduced to Odyssey. Interestingly, this episode was mentioned in an entry last year as well. Maybe because it stands out as such a fun show. Bart and Rodney Rathbone take their scheming to a new level in this story, and it backfires in a hilarious way. If you’re looking for a comedic adventure to introduce a new listener to the show, you can’t go wrong with this episode.
Similarly, Odyssey was also a part of Sarah F.’s childhood. She writes, “I am 20 years old, and my childhood best friend introduced me to AIO when I was 10. We were going through a period of drifting apart due to different interests and natural changes at that age, but I still went over every day and we would quietly listen to AIO together and work on our own little projects. It kept us together. I moved across the country three years later, and that friend has since fallen away from her faith and no longer speaks to me. It breaks my heart, but listening to AIO brings me back to her and reminds me of those times we would merely sit in each other’s company and be transported away to Odyssey, together.”
We are all on a journey. Even good memories can be mixed with heartbreak. But as Odyssey co-creator Phil Lollar often says, remember where you are in the story. We have to remember that the story isn’t over yet. Whether you’re ten or twenty, forty or eighty, God is working together all things for your good, for the good of those who love him, and for his glory.
Though many fans get introduced to Odyssey as kids, others become fans as adults. Hannah S. writes, “One day, at nineteen years old, I overheard the episode Over the Airwaves playing on someone else's device. I had been in an extended season of intense burnout on just about every level possible: spiritually, mentally, physically, emotionally, practically. But listening to The Young Guns Bonanza skit in particular did something very unusual for me at that time: it made me laugh. It engaged my attention in a spiritual lesson without shaming or dismissing me. I decided I had to find more of this content, and I was blown away! I had not realized the scope of the show, or that episodes were even still being produced! I devoured every episode I could find and used them to ground myself when I was spiraling.”
It’s amazing how God’s gift of laughter can impact us. It seems like the Odyssey cast and crew have a great time making the show, and I’m sure The Young Guns Bonanza skit was no exception. Their fun and joy somehow get transported to us via the airwaves, and we can share in it. And I love that the writers put in humor not just for the kids, but for the adults too.
Adventures in Odyssey is clearly for all ages. Marisa L. writes, “You often hear people say ‘Adventures in Odyssey? Yeah, I used to love those as a kid!’ But the older I get, the more I realize that AIO is not just a kid’s show. It’s a family show with lessons that can be applicable to all ages. Even now, as a college student, I’ll be listening to AIO and a moment will just strike me. Sometimes I’ll just be living life and something happens that makes me think ‘Oh, this happened to Connie!’ So not only did AIO help me make the final decision for my major and future career, but it continues to impact my life in the complicated truths it presents in a simple, entertaining manner.”
If you’ve ever worried about being late for work, you might relate to Connie Kendall. Whit, Connie, and Eugene are more than just characters. We’ve come to know them, to appreciate all their quirks, to relate to them. When you’ve listened to Odyssey long enough, you feel almost like they’re real people.
Rose B. writes, “Growing up, I always enjoyed Eugene, but it wasn't until I was older did I truly appreciate the character. I love that, particularly in the early episodes, Eugene was always up to try new things (things he wouldn't usually be interested in), like camping and ice fishing. He was generally always optimistic and had a great attitude, even when Bernard and Tom made their typical wisecracks about him. He was just happy to be there and be included.
All Eugene ever wanted was to feel like he belonged. I relate to that a lot. I always wanted a place where I felt like I belonged. And this community has given me that.”
Before reading Rose’s story, I had honestly never thought of Eugene in that way. And I thought I knew him pretty well. But it totally makes sense. Eugene Meltsner really is looking for his place, how he fits in. Knowing that gives me a whole new appreciation, and empathy, for him as a character.
Kaylynn G. also writes about a connection with Eugene, among other characters. She says, “Eugene taught me that it’s okay to be different and to embrace those differences. Jason taught me to be brave. Jack Allen taught me that God is always there, even in the darkest moments. Wooton - it’s okay to embrace your silly side.”
It’s amazing how realistic these characters feel, even whimsical Wooton Bassett. The writers could have simply made him all comic relief, but his character has a complexity that you can’t miss. We hear that especially in his care and concern for Grady, and in more recent years in his attentiveness to his wife Penny.
There are too many stand-out characters to name. Each and every one of them has contributed to make Adventures in Odyssey what it is today. Christina L. writes, “The Barclay's taught me how to be a good money steward and to budget accordingly. On that same tangent, Barrett Jones taught me the importance of tithing. First Love gave me strength to get out of a bad relationship and gave me the comfort afterwards. Tales of Moderation taught me not to be attached to worldly things. Henny actually turned me off from drugs as a teen! 😆 Lawrence Hodges taught me to live with wonder and imagination. Aubrey showed me the importance of choosing good friends. Bernard brought to life so many Bible stories that have now become my favorites. Whit has become my second conscience and in sticky situations I find myself asking, ‘Well what would Whit do?’, or ‘How would he handle this situation?’”
What Would Whit Do? That needs to be on a T-shirt. John Avery Whittaker is someone we can all look up to. His warm voice, first brought to life by actor Hal Smith, was a big part of my childhood and will always hold so much nostalgia.
E.Z. C. writes, “Being blind, of course, radio drama as we called it at the time, it was the perfect form of entertainment for me, but more than that, the characters were as real to me as my own family. Mr. Whittaker reminded me so much of my grandfather. They both could fix anything and could do anything and made amazing milkshakes. I had a very idyllic childhood, other than when I was at the state school for the blind for the first four years of my education. I was very unhappy there, and the folks in Odyssey were really like family and friends to me.”
There is so much comfort in these stories, and so many lessons that have been taught during the show’s run of three and a half decades. Let’s get into some specific episodes! Hannah W. writes, “Odyssey taught me how to set boundaries (Between You and Me), to love others and show compassion and empathy when I find someone that is hard to get along with (The Greatest of These), and to trust in God, even when everything feels like it’s falling apart (Novacom).” Leah M. says, “Episodes that bring you to the middle of a Bible story like with OT Action News and the Imagination Station are the ones that have helped me commit the Bible to memory. Whenever I read about Ahab and Jezebel, Joseph, and Esther, I can hear the actors in my head, telling me the story once again. Now, as an adult, I get the chance to tell Bible stories to children, and I can’t help but express them in the way I first heard them --through Adventures in Odyssey.” Truly H. writes, “They are told in such a way that you could see it, by using your imagination, actually happen. This is what makes the scenarios and characters so relatable. Such is my experience in an episode called “Blood, Sweat, and Fears.” I, like Eugene, hate needles, though not to the extent of Eugene’s phobia, but I do worry myself sick when I know I will have to get blood drawn or get a shot. But through that episode, I was reminded that ‘It’s okay, normal even, to have fears, but we should face them, and when we do, we may even realize that there’s nothing to be afraid of.’”
During a stressful time, Elizabeth E. turned to a certain Odyssey episode for comfort. She writes, “One day I listened to The Great Wishy Woz. I was brought to tears thinking about Mandy, how her parents were heading for a divorce, her brother rebelling, and that she could do nothing to change it. But as I listened to this wonderful play that she had written of her search for help and her finally finding it in the Fisherman, "Mr. IAm", I was brought to tears of thankfulness. The Fisherman brought Mandy back into the storm, saying that it was the only way. But also promising to be with her through everything, that He knew everything that was going on. I love Mandy's song at the end, ‘Always your words are true. Always you love me too. Always, for all of time... Always. Always.’ This song and story carried me through that summer. And often I still think of this song if I am in one of life's storms and I am comforted that Christ knows everything that is going on, that He is with me, and that His plans are good even when they don't feel like it.”
Reading Elizabeth’s story was a wonderful reminder. I had completely forgotten about that song, but it carries a profound truth. I had also never made the connection between the Fisherman bringing Mandy through the storm, and the later story arc with Mandy’s parents. But it’s a brilliant connection in hindsight, and makes The Great Wishy Woz that much more meaningful.
A recent story arc that was meaningful for a lot of listeners was Olivia’s faith arc. Jasmine M. writes, “One of the ways that Adventures in Odyssey has impacted me over the recent years was through “The Lost One Arc” storylines that focused on Olivia’s spiritual journey through a period of questioning her faith. I had doubts if God still loved me even though I had sinned and thought that I was forgiven. It was through the storylines that I learned that God loves us no matter what we have been through, from a loss to a sin, God will never stop loving us.” Amanda J. writes, “It is hard to pick one story, but one story that stood out to me was Olivia’s faith journey. Olivia had to struggle with God’s sovereignty even though it didn’t make sense. Satan had twisted Olivia’s fears into doubt that God could be trusted, just as he has done from the beginning. Growing up in a Christian home like Olivia, my faith seemed more head knowledge than a heart relationship with Jesus. When I was teenager in high school, I came face to face with the fact I didn’t know if I had accepted Christ as my savior. I couldn’t remember. One night I knew I needed to know for sure. I asked God to forgive me of sin and I asked Jesus to come into my heart and save me. Olivia’s fear that God would not hear her anymore felt like someone had seen into my thoughts. I praise the Lord that God’s grace is dependent on Him, and not on my efforts.”
Episodes dealing with grief, such as Life Expectancy, have also had a powerful impact on listeners. Kaylynn G. writes, “The show has been there for me in my lowest moments and my best moments. When I have lost friends it was my comfort, when I had nightmares it was one of the few things that helped. When my appendix burst and we didn’t know until a week after, it was my go-to for comfort and sleep. Life Expectancy came out around the same time my Mimi passed away and it helped me to cope with the pain of losing one of my favorite people in the world. I had a miscarriage in 2020 and when I couldn’t sleep and felt like my world was crashing down AIO was there.”
Nicholas S. writes, “On Saturday, September 28, (after Jungle Jam, Life On The Pond, and Brinkman Adventures) there was a new episode called Life Expectancy in which Connie's mother unexpectedly (to Connie and the audience if no one else) passes away. I listened to it thinking it was sad and unexpected, but I didn't think anything else at the time. That is, I didn't think much about it until the following Wednesday when I learned that one of my college friends and one of the godliest men I knew had spent his Saturday on a camping trip in which he jumped into a river and never resurfaced. Unbeknownst to me, this all happened approximately as I was listening to Odyssey. As Mrs. Hooper would say, it's a terrible age to lose someone. However, God was able to use this radio program's coincidental timing (as if we believed in coincidences) to bring me comfort in a way that nothing else could have.”
Kianna K. writes, “There’s not just one episode that is meaningful to me. There’s different themes and story lines that have recently been meaningful to me, starting with my grief journey after losing my Dad, episodes with grief have been relatable. I related with how Connie and Donna dealt with their grief! And I think Odyssey portrays grief in such a real way! And I also struggle with anxiety, so Odyssey is a comfort in that too! An episode that is recently extra special to me is Hymn Writers episodes with stories behind the song are some of my favorite and I hope there’s more episodes like that in the future!”
God has used Adventures in Odyssey to speak into our lives when we need it most. Hannah S. writes, “One day I was listening to The Mortal Coil, and felt the prodding conviction of the Holy Spirit at Tom Riley’s words to Whit, as he lay in a coma: “[Death] is not a door we should pass through unless God says it’s time to go.” God knew what no one else knew: I was planning my exit. I felt abandoned by God and everyone, like I was losing my sanity, and I could not go on. At the time that I first heard that episode, I, like Eugene in the episode, resisted God’s urging at first. My plans were continually thwarted until the Lord finally brought me to my knees in surrender. Whether I realized it or not, God reminded me of His presence and call on my life through Tom Riley’s words. I have no doubt that the miraculous grace of God drew me out of that deep darkness, and continues to carry me through life's ups and downs.”
When I read Hannah’s story, I was deeply moved. God really is so good, reaching out to us in the most unexpected ways. I already had a great appreciation for The Mortal Coil episodes, but now I think I’ll experience them differently. When Tom says that line, voiced with so much meaning by actor Walker Edmiston, I don’t think I’ll be able to forget how God used those words in Hannah’s life.
Darren G. writes about how God has used Odyssey to change the lives of kids at the Christian camp he worked at as a counselor. He says, “One particularly memorable time was listening to The Imagination Station and a couple of my campers took time to reflect on the part with Barabbas where he is set free and the guard says, “You're free to go, Barabbas. Jesus has taken your place.” This provided some great discussion about what Jesus did for us and it is wonderful to be with campers when that becomes real for them and they submit to God’s promptings for the first time.”
What a special experience, to be with kids when they accept Jesus. What an honor and a privilege. And I’m sure the cast and crew of Odyssey would be honored to know that God has used their work for his plans and purposes. The truths brought up in Adventures in Odyssey truly have eternal significance.
And those truths continue to show up in the show’s latest episodes. More recently, the Odyssey team put together Album 75, a sendoff and a love-letter to Eugene Meltsner and actor Will Ryan. True B. writes, “The four-parter, The Best is Yet to Come, rocked our world this past summer. I was shocked and heartbroken when I found out Will Ryan had passed, so I was anxious to see how the Odyssey team would handle Eugene and honor Will. I listened to the episodes weekly, and I was very nervous when Part 4 was released. I sobbed throughout the episode, especially during Bernard and Eugene’s speeches and the final scene with Mr. Whittaker and Connie. I cried even more as I was reminded of my experiences. When my family moved from my childhood home to be closer to church a couple of years ago, it was hard for me. The Meltsners’ move to Baltimore reminded me of how we’re supposed to go wherever God calls us, even if it means leaving what is comfortable. I related so much to the Meltsners’ situation, and through these episodes, even though it was hard, I learned how we are to go wherever we’re called in faith and to remember that the best is yet to come.”
The best is yet to come. As Christians, we believe that. We know God is working everything together, bringing about his ultimate plans. And yes, a little radio show that began in 1987 is included in that. Adventures in Odyssey may not be world-famous, and it certainly doesn’t have all the awards and accolades and recognition that it deserves. But God’s using it somehow. And one day, I believe, we’ll all see the full extent of how God has used Odyssey to impact people’s lives.
One tangible way, which we can already see, is how Odyssey has brought people together. The shows brings families closer to each other, and has generated a community of fans online. Crystal C. writes, “Now my kid (11) is an avid listener and we talk about the characters, situations, or what we think almost every day. Now that they have a streaming service she can listen to it every night and most of the day, so it's been the thing we've bonded over the most. As she enters those teen years and gets her own interests, sometimes it's harder to relate to things she's interested in, but we still have Odyssey.”
Emily W. writes, “Adventures in Odyssey has impacted my life by keeping me close with my family. When Covid first started four years ago I couldn't see my family for a long time after I went into long-term care. My younger sister and I came up with a system where we could listen to Odyssey together over the phone. It gave us a reason to talk to each other. I have a lot of siblings who are going in a lot of different directions and Odyssey is one of our common interests. One of my other sisters and I started an Odyssey podcast. While we have taken a break from it recently, I'm hoping to get it started up again. I enjoyed working on it with her. Odyssey has also helped me memorize Scripture and develop my auditory learning skills. I am very thankful for these special stories and characters that continue to inspire my creativity and strengthen family ties.”
Odyssey brings people together. Brian C. even met his spouse through the Odyssey fandom, and then named his child Reagan Avery. He writes, “Yes, the Avery is for a certain John Avery Whittaker that brought us together.” E.Z. C. writes, “Now, even in my 30s I still listen almost literally every day, I have made so many friends, seriously, some of the best friends that I have ever had, which is an answer to prayer that goes back to the days in the blind school when I would cry myself to sleep, hoping I would find one person in my life who knew what this show was and loved it as much as I did. All of those friends have come from this group. I talk to a lot of you every single day, you know my ups, and my downs, and my joys, and my sorrows and vice versa, and through it all, the connecting thread of a place of wonder, excitement, and discovery never leaves our conversations.”
Rose B. writes, “Adventures in Odyssey has impacted my life in many ways throughout my years of listening. It was a huge comfort to me when I was going through a dark time with anxiety. But the Odyssey community and all the people I have met along the way (because of Odyssey) have made an even bigger impact. I adore the show, but I love the people that have come from it even more. 💛”
Adventures in Odyssey people are our kind of people. Growing up, I didn’t have any friends who listened to Odyssey. And if I told people about it, they were usually convinced that AIO was just for kids. But as we’ve seen in these stories, that is hardly the case. It was last summer that I got more involved with the online fan community on Facebook and Instagram, and it’s been better than I ever expected. The conversations I’ve had, the people I’ve met online—it’s all been so fun and meaningful. To be a part of this fan community is the best, and I’m so thankful to Odyssey for it.
Steven H. writes, “When I first heard about AIO I thought it didn't sound very interesting. I was used to action and adventure on television and all the different types of comic books that I could get ahold of. But after I heard about AIO I learned that there was a lot more than meets the ears; I fell in love with AIO and all the characters that are on the show. It was such a great way to learn about how all the different forms of media affect our lives. I appreciate all the lessons that I have been able to learn and my family from listening to this show. I am so thankful for all those that do the work to get AIO out to the masses.”
Thank you, Adventures in Odyssey. Thank you to the whole team, cast and crew. Thank you for bringing us this one-of-a-kind show, and for bringing us together with other fans who love these stories.
Thank you to each and every one who contributed your personal stories this past month. I was blown away by what you all shared. It was so heartfelt and touching. Because of what you shared, I won’t look at Adventures in Odyssey the same way. You all helped us fall in love with Odyssey a little more, and with this community of fans.
And thank you for reading. If you’ve gotten this far, then you are a true fan. If you’re not already connected with the Adventures in Odyssey Fan Club on Facebook, consider joining! It’s the best place to be on the internet. You’ll find your people there, and we’d be happy to have you.
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