Episodes
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Summary
In the finale episode of the Stimpak podcast, Mary and Jeff Frazier discuss their homecoming and the emotional experiences they had during that time. They talk about their journey to the airport, the reunion at the car, and their first moments together in America. They share their feelings of excitement, nervousness, and relief. They also discuss the physical changes they both experienced, such as weight loss and the need to adjust to normal eating habits. The couple reflects on the parallel experiences they had during their separation and how it brought them closer together as a team. In this conversation, Mary and Jeff Frazier discuss their experience with therapy after Mary's kidnapping and the importance of healing and recovery. They highlight the specialized therapists available for kidnapping and hostage situations and the need for support in the aftermath of trauma. They also discuss the challenges of reintegrating into daily life and the triggers that can bring back traumatic memories. The Fraziers express their gratitude for the support they received from family, friends, and the community, and emphasize the importance of helping others who have experienced similar trauma. They conclude by announcing their plans for Season 3 of the Stimpak podcast, which will focus on solutions for Haiti.
Takeaways
The homecoming was a mix of excitement, nervousness, and relief for both Mary and Jeff.
They experienced parallel physical and emotional changes during their separation.
The couple bonded and became a stronger team through their shared experiences.
Adjusting to normal life and eating habits was a challenge for both of them. Specialized therapists are available for individuals who have experienced kidnapping and hostage situations.
Recovery from trauma takes time and may involve triggers that bring back traumatic memories.
Support from family, friends, and the community is crucial in the healing process.
The Fraziers express gratitude for the support they received and emphasize the importance of helping others who have experienced trauma.
Season 3 of the Stimpak podcast will focus on solutions for Haiti and how to lift the country out of its current situation.Sound Bites
"We're at the end of this long and painful journey."
"I was just so excited to get to the airport."
"Your eyes looked a certain way for the first few days. I think it's gotta be a shock thing."
"This is just so, you in your situation, it's like a hundred percent recovery."
"Your subconscious mind associates the two and is worried that you are and doesn't know better, right?"
"We kept on getting healthier and realizing like, Oh, actually we weren't that healthy." -
Jeff Frazier interviews Austin Holmes, who played a crucial role in negotiating and securing Jeff's release from kidnapping in Haiti. Austin is described as having the skill set and integrity needed for the job. The conversation covers their initial interactions, the challenges they faced, and the negotiations with the kidnappers. They discuss the importance of trust, the difficulties of communication, and the impact of external factors like the Bois-Caïman gang. Austin also praises Mary, Jeff's wife, for her authenticity, discernment, and ability to see the bigger picture. The conversation highlights the transformation and growth of Mary during the kidnapping ordeal. She initially deferred to the experts but eventually took on the responsibility of making decisions on her own behalf. The negotiation process involved resetting trust and rules multiple times. The team had to navigate the complexity of dealing with different negotiators and decision-makers within the gang. The final accord was reached by consistently holding the gang accountable and refusing to adjust the terms. The live exchange was a tense moment, with concerns about potential points of failure and the need for validation. The conversation also emphasizes the ongoing challenges and issues in Haiti that need to be addressed.
Takeaways
Austin Holmes played a crucial role in negotiating and securing Jeff Frazier's release from kidnapping in Haiti. Trust was a key factor in the negotiations, and Austin had to work to establish trust with Jeff and his family. Communication was challenging due to the difficult circumstances and the need for secrecy. External factors, such as the presence of the Bois-Caïman gang, added complexity to the situation. Mary, Jeff's wife, was praised for her authenticity, discernment, and ability to see the bigger picture. Mary underwent a transformation during the kidnapping ordeal, taking on the responsibility of making decisions on her own behalf. The negotiation process involved resetting trust and rules multiple times. Dealing with different negotiators and decision-makers within the gang added complexity to the negotiation process. The final accord was reached by consistently holding the gang accountable and refusing to adjust the terms. The live exchange was a tense moment, with concerns about potential points of failure and the need for validation. The conversation highlights the ongoing challenges and issues in Haiti that need to be addressed.
Sound Bites
"Austin is one of my freedom fighters on my lifelong freedom fighters team." "We had a problem. His name was Jeff Frazier." "We had to sideline Jeff. So everything became about regaining control and getting the microphone back." "Faithful, resilient, crazy her and Aaron were awesome to work with and she's a pretty remarkable person." "What a transformation, right? I mean, that's a pill right there, right? And the strength and backbone to see that, acknowledge it, and to step up to the plate to be responsible for it." "We paid, they agreed to give you up and they And they're demanding the hundred K again"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Austin Holmes
10:33 The First Payment and Trust Issues
21:26 The Impact of the Bois-Colais Movement
23:33 Mary's Role and Discernment
27:37 Transformation and Taking Responsibility
34:57 Being Aggressive and Consistent in Negotiations
39:50 Reaching an Accord and the Live Exchange
48:59 Addressing the Ongoing Issues in Haiti
51:06 Artificial Intelligence and Automation
51:07 Privacy Concerns in the Digital Age
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Missing episodes?
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Summary In this conversation, Mary Frazier joins the podcast to discuss the events leading up to her release from captivity in Haiti. They discuss the challenges of negotiating with the gang, the emotional roller coaster of day 28, and the efforts to secure her release through non-monetary means. They also touch on the involvement of politicians and the media in their efforts. The conversation ends with the discussion of the pivotal moment on day 38 when the gang is willing to negotiate a smaller ransom amount. In this conversation, Jeff and Mary discuss the challenges they faced during the negotiation process for Jeff's release. They talk about the difficulties in finding a location for the exchange and the frustration that came with it. They also mention the involvement of various individuals who supported their cause. Finally, they discuss the moment when Jeff was finally released and the emotions they experienced during that time.
Takeaways
Negotiating with the gang was challenging and required building trust over time. Day 28 was a particularly emotional day as they hoped for Mary's release but were ultimately disappointed. Efforts were made to secure Mary's release through non-monetary means, including leveraging political connections and media attention. The involvement of politicians and the media had a significant impact on the negotiations. The pivotal moment on day 38 when the gang was willing to negotiate a smaller ransom amount. Having someone to talk to and go through the difficult times with can be incredibly helpful. Finding a location for a live exchange can be a challenging and time-consuming process. The involvement of supportive individuals can make a significant difference in a negotiation. The moment of release can be both relieving and overwhelming, with a mix of emotions.
Keywords
Sound Bites "These gangs are knuckleheads. They don't know anything about the real world." "I remember every phone call I got from a Haitian number, like I wasn't even allowed to answer." "Every person that got out, I was grateful because I was like, okay, every person that gets out, it's gonna make it easier for him to actually leave." "Stephanie, I love you if you're watching." "Just some of the amazing people that were getting involved at these higher levels that really cared and really interested in getting you home." "Let's fast they come up with a deal on a ransom amount and that it's going to be a live exchange."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
02:03 Establishing Trust and Making Agreements
06:02 The Emotional Roller Coaster of Hope and Disappointment
10:37 Applying Pressure on the Gang through Various Channels
19:44 Holding Firm in Negotiations and Not Giving In
25:43 The Challenges of Negotiation and Location Agreement
29:10 A Breakthrough and a Live Exchange
32:14 The Panic of a Shortage and the Successful Exchange
36:24 Reintegration and the Importance of Patience
43:31 The Role of Support and Communication in the Negotiation Process
46:31 Artificial Intelligence and Automation
46:32 Privacy Concerns in the Digital Age
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Summary
In this part of the conversation, Jeff Frazier shares his experience in captivity and the challenges he faced. He talks about the excitement of DJ getting close to being released and the constant harassment from the kidnappers. Jeff discusses the conditions in captivity, including the bright lights and uncomfortable sleeping arrangements. He also mentions his hope for a solution to his ransom and the support he receives from his wife, Mary. Jeff reflects on the importance of perseverance and the realization that he is capable of more than he thought. In the second part of the conversation, Jeff describes the final days of his captivity and his eventual release. He talks about the emotional rollercoaster he experienced, from moments of hope and excitement to fear and despair. Jeff shares how he tried to manage his emotions and maintain a sense of control in a dangerous and unpredictable situation. He also reflects on the impact of his captivity on his physical and mental well-being. Finally, Jeff recounts the moment of his release and the overwhelming emotions he felt upon reuniting with his wife.
Keywords
captivity, release, harassment, conditions, hope, ransom, support, perseverance, captivity, release, emotions, hope, fear, despair, physical well-being, mental well-being, reunion
Takeaways
The excitement of DJ getting close to being released
The constant harassment from the kidnappers
The uncomfortable conditions in captivity
The hope for a solution to the ransom
The support and strength from Jeff's wife, Mary
The realization that he is capable of more than he thought Jeff experienced a range of emotions during his captivity, from hope and excitement to fear and despair.
He tried to manage his emotions and maintain a sense of control in a dangerous and unpredictable situation.
Jeff reflects on the impact of his captivity on his physical and mental well-being.
The moment of his release and reuniting with his wife was overwhelming and filled with emotions.Sound Bites
"DJ is getting close to being released"
"The lights are always on. So ever since the escape, they find fuel for the generator and they run the generator and the light is always on"
"I just kind of resigned that I was going to be there for awhile, which strangely is a better way to pass the time than hoping every day that maybe today's the day"
"We've crossed enough hurdles. It looks could work."
"You don't want the kidnappers to catch you looking through the people."
"I'm doing exactly what I have to do, which is try to get this money and show them that I'm trying to get this money."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Recap
00:59 Difficult Conditions of Captivity
04:49 Emotional Battle on Day 30
08:33 Lesson from Army Experience
11:47 Recognizing Our True Capability
12:16 DJ's Release and the Loan Shark
20:06 Hope and Despair: Jeff's Emotional Rollercoaster
21:04 Relief: Mary is Okay
37:06 Stephanie's Possible Escape
39:34 The Struggles of Isolation and Harassment
46:55 Finding Courage in the Midst of Despair
51:02 Negotiations and the Search for an Accord
01:05:41 The Tense Moments Before Release
01:11:53 Encounter with a Gang Member
01:16:15 Relief and Freedom at the Marriott Hotel
01:19:25 Reflections on Physical and Emotional State
01:32:07 Artificial Intelligence and Automation
01:32:08 Privacy Concerns in the Digital Age -
Summary Stephanie Dufort shares her experience of being kidnapped in Haiti and the harrowing moments she went through. She discusses how she was targeted because of the color of her skin and considered a rich person. Stephanie talks about the initial moments of the kidnapping, the fear she felt, and the attempts to escape. She also highlights the emotional toll it took on her and her loved ones. Despite the trauma, Stephanie's faith in God grew stronger, and she gained a deeper appreciation for life. Stephanie and Jeff continue their conversation, discussing the details of their captivity and the physical and emotional abuse they endured. They reflect on the fear and uncertainty they felt during their ordeal and the relief they experienced upon their release. Stephanie shares her gratitude for the support and prayers they received and emphasizes the ongoing violence and suffering in Haiti. They conclude by expressing hope for a better future for the country. Keywords kidnapping, Haiti, targeted, escape, fear, emotional toll, faith, appreciation for life, captivity, abuse, fear, uncertainty, release, gratitude, support, prayers, violence, suffering, Haiti, hope Takeaways Stephanie was kidnapped in Haiti and targeted because of the color of her skin. She experienced fear and trauma during the kidnapping and made attempts to escape. The emotional toll on Stephanie and her loved ones was significant. Her faith in God grew stronger, and she gained a deeper appreciation for life. Stephanie and Jeff recount the details of their captivity and the physical and emotional abuse they endured. They reflect on the fear and uncertainty they felt during their ordeal and the relief they experienced upon their release. Stephanie expresses her gratitude for the support and prayers they received during their captivity. They highlight the ongoing violence and suffering in Haiti and hope for a better future for the country. Titles Surviving a Kidnapping: Stephanie's Story Escaping Captivity: Stephanie's Journey to Freedom Surviving Captivity: A Story of Abuse and Resilience Gratitude and Hope: Reflecting on the Ordeal in Haiti Sound Bites "Someone gave me up." "I felt guilty mostly when I got kidnapped." "It's not your fault. It's only the kidnapper's fault." "He's touching me." "I would not have survived." "I was physically freed, but not mentally." Chapters 00:00Introduction and Welcome 01:27Day One: Stephanie's Kidnapping 05:53Living in Captivity: Conditions and Challenges 09:21Surviving in Difficult Circumstances 12:25The Emotional Toll of Captivity 17:00Torture and Capture 33:43Surviving Captivity 37:32The Horrific Conditions in the Room 37:33Release and Gratitude 41:03Raising Awareness
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Summary In this episode, Jeff recounts his experiences on day 29 of captivity. He describes being recaptured after an escape attempt and being placed in a new cell. Jeff reflects on the guards' reactions and the fear they displayed. He then shares the brutal beating he endured, including being hogtied with cords and the intense pain he felt. Jeff also discusses the psychological impact of the beatings and his realization that his timeline for escape had been reset. He concludes by urging listeners to empathize with the people who are still suffering under the control of the gangs in Haiti. Keywords: captivity, escape attempt, recapture, fear, beating, hogtied, pain, psychological impact, empathy, Haiti Takeaways Jeff is recaptured after an escape attempt and placed in a new cell The guards display fear and concern for their own safety Jeff endures a brutal beating, including being hogtied with cords The beatings have a psychological impact on Jeff Jeff realizes that his timeline for escape has been reset Jeff urges listeners to empathize with the people suffering under the control of the gangs in Haiti Titles Resetting the Timeline for Escape Empathy for the Suffering in Haiti Sound Bites "I, the way that I get out the most successfully is by giving what and what they want." "Something flipped in my brain... I was terrified." "I start by saying, you know, how am I supposed to get it? You know, and his intensity of course just escalates."
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SummaryDay 28 of the Stimpak podcast continues the story of Jeff Frazier's kidnapping. Negotiations are ongoing, and Chef Rasta is now involved. Jeff's team has an agreement with the kidnappers, but the amount of money is not enough for them. Jeff and Stephanie plan to escape through the window, and they start preparing disguises and bending the bars. The kidnappers are partying and not checking on Jeff and Stephanie, which gives them the opportunity to escape. After successfully escaping through the window, Jeff and Stephanie wait for the right time to leave the compound. They carefully navigate the area, avoiding dogs and waiting for the traffic to die down. They make their way out of the compound and walk slowly to blend in with the locals. However, their plan takes an unexpected turn when they encounter two gangsters. Jeff and Stephanie try to convince them to help, but ultimately, they are sold out to another gang. They are taken back to the compound and placed in a room with other captives. Keywordskidnapping, negotiations, Chef Rasta, escape plan, disguises, bending bars, escape, compound, gangsters, sold out, captives Takeaways Negotiations with the kidnappers continue, but the amount of money is not enough for them Jeff and Stephanie plan to escape through the window They start preparing disguises and bending the bars The kidnappers are partying and not checking on Jeff and Stephanie, giving them the opportunity to escape Escaping from a dangerous situation requires careful planning and timing. Even when things seem to be going well, unexpected challenges can arise. Trusting strangers in a dangerous situation can be risky. Hope can be both a source of strength and a vulnerability. The journey to freedom is often filled with setbacks and uncertainty. Titles Preparing for Escape: Bending Bars and Disguises Negotiations and Escaping: Day 28 of the Kidnapping Trusting Strangers: The Risky Path to Freedom The Perilous Escape: Navigating Danger and Uncertainty Sound Bites "Negotiations are ongoing, and Chef Rasta is now involved" "Jeff and Stephanie plan to escape through the window" "Preparing disguises and bending the bars" "The only thing I can compare it to is if you've ever done extreme sports or jumped off a cliff. There's a phrase that extreme sports people use, which is send it." "Once you leave the compound, there's no trees at all. So all of a sudden, I just feel incredibly exposed." "We're trying to offer them an immense amount of money. It's small cash for you and I, but a lot for them, life-changing money for them."
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Big Frazier news, Vigilante justice movements, Chef Jeff is 'fired', Billy is 'hired', Escape plans mature.
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Jeff submits, keeping your mind right, escape planning continues.
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Daily life in captivity, Introduction to the guards, Gunny agrees to delevery ransom money
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Escape concepts. Confusion. Cash.
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Miscommunication abounds. Phone call with Mary
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Not long after I finish my call and Kervins finishes translating, seven or eight kidnappers storm in the room and tell Stephanie and I to lay face down on two separate mattresses. Bad Cop is there. I don’t quite understand what he wants me to do. I ask him a question. He punches me in the ear. I lay down and put my arms behind my back not knowing what’s going on. Maybe the $100k wasn’t enough.
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The downside of that arrogance (amongst many other things) is that I can become a DIY guy when I aught not. It had not even occurred to me on Day 3, that Mary might be putting together a team of highly qualified experts who were preparing to lead my negotiations. Think of all you’d need in order to help me. You’d need to speak Kreyol, be a skilled negotiator, know about this gang and their specific tactics, style, capabilities. You’d need to know my finances, where our money is, how to get it, how much I’d be willing to pay or not pay - and more!
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At 6:54pm I call Bill through WhatsApp. He gives me the number of someone he trusts in Haiti and tells me “He’s going to help you”. I try to get him to elaborate. Who is this guy? Is he a gang leader? Is he a negotiator? Bill won’t elaborate.
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The soldier reached over to my side of the truck and grabbed my hat and covered my eyes with it and pushed my head down in an effort to keep me from seeing where we were going. I was able to turn my head to the right enough to look out the window and did my best to remember the route. I counted the number of lefts and rights as we ascended the hill in hope of providing valuable intel to someone at sometime. I wouldn’t remember any of it.
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As we went to each location, I expected to see the desperate and dying like I had seen on previous visits to Jacmel. However, it became clear by the afternoon that in the few months that had passed since my previous visit to Jacmel that food security in the area was improving.
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Within minutes I am taken aback by the destruction that has taken place since my previous trip through this city just 2.5 years earlier. Most businesses along the road are gone. The homes in sight are empty.
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I was kidnapped in Haiti on April 12th, 2023, and held for 43 days. I was beaten, terrorized and tortured. I escaped for about 8 hours but only made it about a mile before I was recaptured by a neighboring gang and returned to my cell. It was terrible. I lost about 50 pounds before being released on May 24th. Over the next six weeks, My wife Mary and I will share our story here.
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There have been many books on development written and cited by academics from around the world. We will try to focus on those listed within the syllabi of respected universities. It is important for the reader to understand that StimPack is new in its mission to lead development efforts in Haiti. This is an audacious mission considering the many brilliant minds that have preceded us. However, our approach is far more humble than it might initially appear. We intend to stand on the shoulders of our experienced predecessors, leveraging their experimentation and resulting wisdom to move this work forward. StimPack also realizes the value of development work done outside of Haiti that may have significant value within it. This article will work to apply to Haiti the ideas of the late Clayton M. Christensen of Harvard Business School and his co-authors Efosa Ojomo and Karen Dillon as taught in their book The Prosperity Paradox. We hope you will find this a valuable exercise.
This will not be a summary or thorough book report. We have instead extracted a few points we find relevant to Haiti.
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