Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story

It was a dream-turned-nightmare, for former American football star, Wendell Brown when he began coaching his beloved sport to Chinese citizens. After being attacked by multiple men, in a Yuzhong District nightclub, the Detroit legend, is the one who finds himself in one of the harshest prisons in China, facing a nearly impossible battle against a legal system with a 99% conviction rate. Yet, hope arises in the most unexpected form: a group of strangers from around the world who, using the WeChat app, come together to form “Team Wendell.” Scattered across the globe, they must fight against all odds to bring the American home before more harm finds him. Behind bars in one of China's harshest prisons, Wendell is the only Black man, American, and foreigner in a cell with 30 men. Isolated and targeted, he must survive not just the horrid conditions but also the danger from fellow prisoners. To survive, Wendell and his team need the perfect game plan. Binge the full season of "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story" now. Available wherever you listen to podcasts! A production of Entropy Media.

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Episodes

"Underbelly: Killing Kurt" - Season 3 Out Now!

For years, Kurt Calabrese lived under the violent rule of his father, feared Chicago hitman Frank “The Breeze” Calabrese Sr. But when his brother turned informant, their family—and the Chicago Outfit—began to fall apart. The betrayal led to a historic trial, exposing decades of unsolved murders and taking down some of the most powerful mob figures in modern history. But behind the headlines was an even darker story—one of family loyalty, fear, and survival. Now, for the first time, Kurt reveals ...

Apr 09, 2025•2 min

BONUS Interview: Wendell reflects on his journey

In this special bonus episode of "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story", Wendell Brown sits down with Matt Liston for an interview to reflect on his time since his release from Chinese prison. He talks about how he felt hearing his story retold in the podcast, the overwhelming support from his team and family, and the lessons learned from his time in prison. Wendell also shares updates on his personal growth, his son's achievements, and the profound gratitude he feels for being home just before th...

Oct 16, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 9

Home | Episode 8 (Season Finale)

After spending three years in a Chinese prison, Wendell finally returns home. As he reunites with his family and friends, the raw moments of joy and bittersweet reflections unfold, from the tense wait at LAX to the triumphant welcome in Detroit. It’s a powerful story of resilience, community support, and an unbreakable spirit, showcasing the faith, love, and determination that helped Wendell rebuild his life against all odds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 25, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 8

Let's Make a Deal | Episode 7

In August of 2019, a new possibility emerges: Wendell might be able to buy his freedom with a payment to the victim. With Sophia negotiating in China, Wendell’s family and friends scramble to raise the necessary funds. From GoFundMe efforts to help from Ball State alumni like Jason Whitlock, hope rises—but so do the financial demands. Will this deal finally bring Wendell home, or are there more obstacles ahead? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 18, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 7

The Verdict | Episode 6

Wendell Brown's family and friends anxiously await the verdict in his Chinese court case. While Sheree attends the hearing in China, Antoinette and a house full of loved ones in Detroit prepare for what they hope will be Wendell’s release after two years of imprisonment. As the family processes some heartbreaking news about his sentencing, feelings of frustration and disbelief take over, raising questions about justice, privilege, and the unequal treatment Wendell has faced. Despite the crushing...

Sep 11, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 6

The Gamechanger | Episode 5

Wendell recounts the dehumanizing conditions in detention, where basic necessities like haircuts were stripped of dignity, and survival became a daily struggle. As he prepares for his first trial, Wendell's hope dwindles when his own lawyer seems to be working against him, urging him to plead guilty despite his innocence. Wendell's frustration and helplessness grow as he realizes the legal representation his family fought so hard to secure is far from trustworthy. But just as Wendell begins to l...

Sep 04, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 5

The Footage | Episode 4

A recent letter from Wendell exposes the emotional toll of enduring nearly three years without a verdict. New information is discovered about the night that led to his arrest, including key surveillance footage that casts doubt on the charges against him. Wendell’s story highlights the deep flaws in the justice system and the determined efforts to secure his freedom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 28, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 4

99% | Episode 3

On a freezing Detroit evening in 2002, Wendell Brown led his high school football team to victory, showcasing the relentless drive that would define his journey. Two decades later, that same determination is tested as Wendell, now a football coach in China, finds himself imprisoned on disputed charges. This episode explores Wendell's rise in Detroit’s East Side, the unwavering support of his family, and the complexities of seeking justice in a foreign land. We hear exclusive insights from Wendel...

Aug 21, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 3

Locked Up Abroad | Episode 2

Wendell recounts the terrifying moments leading up to his arrest in Chongqing, China. What began as a scuffle at a bar quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation as an angry mob pursued Wendell through the streets. Seeking refuge, he turned to the police for help, only to be handcuffed and left defenseless against the crowd's wrath. Wendell's nightmare only deepens as he's thrown into a brutal Chinese prison system, facing unimaginable conditions and isolation, with no contact with his ...

Aug 14, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 2

Bring Home Wendell Brown | Episode 1

In the dead of night, Wendell Brown—a former American football coach from Detroit—finds himself surrounded by police officers in a foreign land, unsure of what's happening or where he's being taken. He recounts his terrifying first encounter with the Chinese legal system after a night out in Chongqing goes horribly wrong. As he’s thrown into a cell, unable to contact anyone or speak the language, Wendell’s nightmare begins. Host Matt Liston introduces us to Wendell's story, setting the stage for...

Aug 14, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 1

Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story (Official Trailer) - Premieres August 14th

In a 2016 trip to China, Detroit football legend Wendell Brown was wrongfully charged with assault after a fight at a local bar. Facing a 99% conviction rate, Wendell survives the harsh Chinese prison system thanks to his resilience and a group of strangers from around the world who organized to bring him home. "Game Plan: The Wendell Brown Story", the all new podcast from Entropy Media, premieres with new episodes weekly starting August 14th. Subscribe or follow now wherever you get your podcas...

Jun 25, 2024•2 min

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