From Warzone to LA: How I Escaped from Ukraine Part 1

Just Fake It: Coming to LA

Join host Maryna and her husband, Gene, as they share their extraordinary journey from meeting at film school in Los Angeles to surviving the Ukrainian invasion. This compelling episode of Just Fake It details their long-distance love story, creative endeavors, and the harrowing escape from Ukraine amidst missile strikes and military checkpoints. They talk about resilience, fear, and ultimate reunion in Slovakia, the power of love and human connection amidst chaos.

00:00 Intro
00:41 Welcome to a Special Episode
01:16 Meeting Gene
02:16 First Encounters and Film School
05:03 Creative Collaborations and Growing Closer
08:31 Long Distance Challenges and Reunions
18:32 Navigating the Pandemic and Reconnecting
29:52 A Night at the Opera
30:46 The Proposal Surprise
33:28 Planning the Wedding
35:26 Visa Challenges
38:02 Rising Tensions in Ukraine
48:49 The Invasion Begins
01:01:33 Escaping the War Zone
01:09:56 Shin Shirley's Big Moment
01:10:09 Escape from the City
01:13:14 Fuel Shortages and Air Raids
01:15:48 Forest Road and Checkpoints
01:21:37 Border Crossing Challenges
01:28:03 Lost in Slovakia
01:34:05 Reunion and Refugee Camp
01:46:14 Finding Each Other

This episode is more than just a recount of our escape; it's about the human spirit and the power of love. Join us as we share personal experiences of navigating a war-torn country and the emotional toll it took on us. Our story is a reminder of the importance of hope, courage, and the connections that keep us going.

We hope you enjoyed Part 1 of our story. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll continue sharing our experiences and our new life in Los Angeles.