When she was sixteen, Heather Parady made a split-second decision that turned an ordinary summer afternoon into a story she would never forget. What began as a simple trip for cake mix ended with a crash, a cover-up, and a moment of fierce sisterly loyalty. It was a beautiful display of the kind of love that shows up in the mess, fear, and choices that don’t always make sense on paper.

In this episode of Backtrack, Heather revisits that day through the lens of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” reflecting on control, courage, and the kind of connection that asks us to show up for the people we love.

Heather also shares how storytelling has reshaped the way she sees the world, softening assumptions, deepening empathy, and creating spaces where people feel safe enough to tell the truth about their lives.

Want to see the full performance? You’ll find Heather’s story and The Tabernacle Collective’s live rendition of “Don’t Stop Believin’” here. You can also find more stories, interviews, and upcoming events at AtlantaStorytellers.org.

Until next time, think back on the songs that have shaped you, and we’ll be back soon with more stories and memories of the music that has shaped us all.