When listener Melody called the Bobby Bones Show this week, we were a little nervous about what she was planning to do.
She said she was flying into town and driving a few hours to meet an influencer named Brandon she’d met on TikTok, she’d been following for years due to his inspiring story of never giving up from homelessness to today where he now has a place. On the surface, that idea had every red flag imaginable. But Melody insisted everything would be in a public place, and she promised she wouldn’t be alone or give him any crazy money. Still, even she admitted her husband wasn’t thrilled about the plan.
Fast-forward to this morning, Melody called back with an update. And she’s alive. Not only alive, but glowing. She said the trip went great and that she truly believes it was meant to happen. The man she met, Brandon, had been going through a rough few days mentally, and Melody’s visit, she said, “was exactly what he needed.” Melody explained that she wanted to show kindness and encouragement, so she brought him a few small gifts: a blanket, a keychain with positive affirmations, and a Husky Beanie Baby since he’s always wanted a real dog.
The two met up at BB King’s on Beale Street, shared a meal, laughed, and talked about life. Melody said it felt like she was sitting with an old friend, that it was “the best experience” and reminded her why it’s important to spread love and positivity. But then came the twist… Melody picked him up herself. She didn’t mention that part until after the fact.
Bobby immediately jumped in: “Melody, I love your heart, but you can’t pick up a stranger you met online. Even you knew that, that’s why you didn’t tell us before!” Thankfully, everything turned out fine, but it’s definitely not advice we’d recommend following. Melody agreed. She said, “I probably wouldn’t want my daughter to do this. But I did it, and I feel fulfilled today.” Bobby was touched by her heart and wanted to reward that, just with a little more safety next time. He even sent Melody and her best friend out to dinner for her birthday weekend.
Before hanging up, Bobby asked one last question: Did she give Brandon any money? She admitted she slipped a $100 bill into a card for him, and while he tried to refuse, she insisted he keep it. Bobby said that was totally fine: “A hundred bucks to help someone? I love that. It’s not a scam or a lie, it’s just kindness.”
In the end, Melody’s story was a wild mix of inspiring, terrifying, and heartwarming.