POV Season 30 Episode 7 StoryCorps Shorts: Driven

In season 30 episode 7 of POV, viewers are treated to an hour of touching and deeply personal narratives from StoryCorps Shorts. This episode, titled "Driven," explores the lives, struggles and triumphs of people from all walks of life in their own words.

Each StoryCorps segment is no longer than a few minutes, but in that time, viewers are transported into the lives of real people and their unique experiences. The episode opens with a segment on Fernando and his mother, Maria, who talk about the sacrifices she made when she immigrated to the United States from Mexico for the betterment of her family. Next, viewers are taken on a journey with Denise and James, a couple who share how they met, fell in love, and overcame a serious obstacle together.

As the episode progresses, the stories become increasingly more complex and emotional, invoking a plethora of emotions in the viewer. One StoryCorps depicts a Palestinian mother, Jamila, who speaks with her daughter, Lina, about their family's life under Israeli occupation. Through the exchange, viewers come to understand the feelings of isolation, oppression, and fear that this particular family feels, and how they continue to cope with the situation.

In one of the more emotional segments of the episode, viewers meet Linda Lee, whose life took a dramatic turn after a near-fatal car accident that left her in a wheelchair. Linda beautifully describes how her love of baseball helped get her through the darkest moments and allowed her to find a community that accepted her fully.

Another particularly heart-wrenching story is shared by Carlos Rocha and his daughter, Crystal. Though Carlos passed away shortly before the airing of the episode, his story remains a testament to the power of generational love and perseverance. As a young man, Carlos was paralyzed in a gang-related shooting that also took the life of his brother. His daughter Crystal recounts how her father turned his life around and dedicated himself to being the best parent he could be.

Despite the intense emotions conveyed, the episode isn't all seriousness. The audience is welcomed into the lives of two sisters, Mary and Rebecca, who talk about what it's like to grow up with a roommate you didn't choose - your sibling. Their hilarious, loving dynamic will definitely bring a smile to viewers' faces.

In all of the StoryCorps conversations featured in "Driven," the viewer is left with a sense of connection to each storyteller and a profound admiration for their resilience. Whether they are grappling with grief and loss or grappling with questions of identity and belonging, each person's voice is heard and honored.

Overall, "Driven" is a moving and insightful episode that showcases the power of storytelling as a tool for connection and understanding. It reminds us that everyone has a unique story to tell, and that taking the time to really hear and appreciate that story can lead to profound growth and personal transformation.