Snap Judgment

How long will you hurt yourself before you start loving yourself? Ronald Young Jr. grapples with the impending loss of his mother while still thinking about his weight. And a kid shares what it’s like to live with Gynecomastia (aka Man Boobs).

STORIES

The Weight of Sorrow

Ronald Young Jr. grapples with the impending loss of his mother while still thinking about his weight.

This story comes to us from Weight For It, a production of Oh It’s Big Ron Studios and is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX. Listen to Weight For It wherever you get your podcasts!! Follow Ron on Twitter, Threads, IG, and TikTok – @ohitsbigron

Episodes of Weight For It are produced and written by Ronald Young Jr., with editing from Sarah Dealey. Sound design and mixing from the Reverend John DeLore of Starlight Diner. Theme music from Jay Redd, with additional music from Mass Potential, the artist DT, and the mysterious Breakmaster Cylinder. Episode artwork by Andy J. Pizza.

If you need support for disordered eating or your body image -- please check out the resources below:

Crescent Counseling Center

Intuitive Growth Counseling

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated disorders

Project Heal

Muti-service eating disorders association

National Alliance for Eating Disorders

Eating Recovery Center

What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat – Aubrey Gordon

Heavy – Kiese Laymon

Belly of the Beast – Da’ Shaun Harrison

The Body is Not an Apology – Sonya Renee Taylor

The Amazing T*tty Man

How long will you hurt yourself before you start loving yourself? Nygel Turner shares what it’s like to live with Gynecomastia (aka Man Boobs).

This story was produced by YR Media‘s Adult ISH podcast. Adult ISH is a culture, advice, and storytelling show about #adulting, that is produced entirely by folks who are “almost adults”. Subscribe and listen here!

Produced by Nygel Turner and Davey Kim, sound design by Oluwafemi and Davey Kim.

Season 16 - Episode … Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

It was all they had. A spoon and a rusty nail. But for the young Uyghur men trapped in a cell, it meant… escape. 

Thank you, Hashim, for sharing your story with us.

This episode was reported in partnership with Coda Story.

Reported by Isobel Cockerell of Coda Story. Produced by Isobel Cockerell and John Fecile. Original score by Renzo Gorrio. English translation for Hashim by Ezra. Artwork by Teo Ducot.

Season 16 - Episode 5

Andy Marra is on a mission to Korea in search of the mother she never knew with a secret she absolutely has to tell. And when two close friends can’t see each other face-to-face, they exchange letters from two very different places.

The Birth Dream

Andy Marra is on a mission to Korea in search of the mother she never knew with a secret she absolutely has to tell.

Thank you, Andy, for sharing your story with Snap! Find out more about her advocacy work here.

Produced by Regina Bediako, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Letters from Uncuffed

It’s been almost a year since friends and family have been able to visit their loved ones in prison, due to the pandemic. Letters to the inside are always a lifeline. This year, more than ever.

Today, from Uncuffed, we hear from Adamu Chan, who was recently released from San Quentin State Prison, while his friend Edmond Richardson, is still on the inside.

Uncuffed is a storytelling project made by people behind bars, from inside California prisons, in collaboration with KALW. To hear the full version of this story, visit Uncuffed and make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

Produced by Adamu Chan, Ninna Gaensler-Debs, Angela Johnston, Pat Mesiti-Miller & Eli Wirtschafter.

Snap Classic – Season 16 – Episode 4

Standup comic Cassandra Dee struggles with depression. She jokes about it in her standup comedy but isn’t sure if she can pull it off. She jokes about the kids that bullied her growing up, the bad dates, the suicidal ideations, the failed therapy sessions. The audience laughs, but she wonders… has she gone too far? And - a story from a young woman feeling trapped in her body, until one day she finds the perfect getaway vehicle. 

STORIES 

The Last Thing on the List from Love & Radio

Standup comic Cassandra Dee struggles with depression. She jokes about it in her standup comedy but isn’t sure if she can pull it off. She jokes about the kids that bullied her growing up, the bad dates, the suicidal ideations, the failed therapy sessions. The audience laughs, but she wonders… has she gone too far?

Although this is a story about finding hope, please note it discusses suicidal ideation. Please take care while listening.

Thank you, thank you, to Cassandra Dee for sharing her story. Cassandra's comedy special, Uncle Earth, is available for free on YouTube from Helium Comedy Studios. You can also find her on Instagram.

This story was produced by Justin Kramon with Ana Adlerstein for the Love and Radio podcast. 

Love and Radio is like family to Snap. Their stories are intense, strange, and unlike anything in podcasting – and they’re launching their tenth season later this year. 

Special thanks to Aviva DeKornfeld for her help on this story. Huge thanks also to Brett Wean at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Artwork by Teo Ducot.

Help is available. If you or a loved one is in crisis, please call the Suicide Crisis Lifeline at 988 in the US. You can learn more about suicide prevention, healing, and connect locally with others whose lives have been affected by suicide through the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The Minivan 

A young woman feels trapped in her body, until one day she finds the perfect getaway vehicle.

This story was performed at Snap LIVE at The Power Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in partnership with Michigan Radio and The Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Original Music by Alex Mandel. Music performed by Alex Mandel, Tim Frick, and David Brandt. Re-recording mix by Pat Mesiti-Miller.

Season 16 - Episode 3

Eric and David score their dream house in the country… with a lily pond. When one frog finds it, he tells a friend, who tells a friend, and pretty soon quiet sunsets are now very trilling. It’s loud, it’s proud and it’s about to bring the whole house down. Plus — a story from a man who pulls off an airmail stunt that most could only dream about.

STORIES 

Gay Frog Happy Hour

Eric and David score their dream house in the country… with a lily pond. When one frog finds it, he tells a friend, who tells a friend, and pretty soon quiet sunsets are now very trilling. It’s loud, it’s proud and it’s about to bring the whole house down.

A very big thank you to R. Eric Thomas for sharing his story with Snap! Eric tells more of the frog saga and other hilarious tales in his most recent essay collection, Congratulations, the Best is Over! R. Eric Thomas writes the nationally syndicated daily advice column Asking Eric. He is a playwright, screenwriter, national bestselling author, and long-running host of The Moth in Philadelphia. Find all things Eric on his website.

Produced by Justin Kramon, original score by Clay Xavier, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Air Mail Man

Ever wanted to get some place real bad but didn’t have the funds? Ever try to think up crazy ways to get to your destination, without having to pay? You’re gonna want to listen to this story. Brian Robson pulled off an airmail stunt that most of could only dream about.

Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Renzo Gorrio.

Season 16 - Episode 2

It’s 1972 and Singer Nobuko “JoAnne” Miyamoto and her partner Chris Ijima get “the call.” It’s Yoko Ono and John Lennon inviting them to sing on national TV. What happens next is musical history. And a young massage therapist in Miami Beach gets the business offer of a lifetime. So he shakes hands with the devil and hopes for the best.

STORIES

We Are Not Yellow Pearl

It’s 1972 and Singer Nobuko “JoAnne” Miyamoto and her partner Chris Ijima get “the call.” It’s Yoko Ono and John Lennon inviting them to sing on national TV. What happens next is musical history.

This story contains strong language and references to Japanese Internment and racism against Asians and Asian Americans. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you, Nobuko, for sharing your story with Snap!

After their first and last TV performance, Nobuko and Chris recorded “Yellow Pearl,” “We Are The Children,” and other songs on their 1973 album A Grain of Sand: Music for the Struggle by Asians in America. And while Chris, unfortunately, passed away in 2005, Nobuko is still making music to this day.

For more, check out Noboku’s recently released memoir: Not Yo’ Butterfly: My Long Song of Relocation, Race, Love, and Revolution. And go to Noboku’s website to see what she’s working on next!

Produced by David Exumé, original score by Daniel Riera

The Accidental Arms Dealer

A young massage therapist in Miami Beach gets the business offer of a lifetime. So he shakes hands with the devil and hopes for the best.

Big thanks to David Packouz for sharing your story. If you want to find out the dirty, dirty, gritty, gritty behind this piece, check out the book written by Guy Lawson; it’s called “Arms and the Dudes.”

Produced by Anna Sussman & Julia DeWitt in collaboration with Guy Lawson. Original score by Renzo Gorrio. Artwork by Teo Ducot.

Snap Classic - Season 16 - Episode 1

When men living in Muskegon prison watch the breaking news of George Floyd’s murder on TV, they decide to host a one-of-a-kind celebration of life. And when Cindy adopted a four year old girl from China, there was a lot the two didn’t understand about each other.

STORIES

The Feast

When men living in Muskegon prison watch the breaking news of George Floyd’s murder on TV, they decide to host a one-of-a-kind celebration of life. This story is a tribute to Robert “Silk” Cannon Junior. 

This episode contains strong language and references to police violence. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Special thanks to William Welch and Dee Dee Kirkwood who helped make the bagel sandwich a reality for the men in Muskegon. Additional shout-outs to Catherine Nouhan, Stephen Carmody, and Delores Ingram.

And major thanks to Tana Ganeva, a criminal justice reporter who has written extensively about Michael Thompson’s incarceration and petitions for clemency. You can read more about the George Floyd celebration of life in her article in The Counter. Tana is currently working on a book about Cold War escapees. 

Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Xiao Xiao

When Cindy adopted a four year old girl from China, there was a lot the two didn’t understand about each other.

Find out about Cindy’s story (and her books) at CindyChampnella.com.

Sound Design by Pat Mesiti-Miller, produced by Anna Sussman.

Happy New Year Snap Nation! 

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 58

It's the Nightmare before New Year's with a very Spooky episode from Snap… where guardian angels don't get snow days. Two stories from the mountains full of holiday spirit(s). Snap Judgment presents, “The Don’t Look Back! Special.” Amazing stories from the land of the unexplained from our evil-twin podcast, Spooked.

Spooked, features supernatural stories told by people that can barely believe it happened themselves. Want more Spooked? Episodes drop weekly -- listen on any podcast platform! 

STORIES

Cliffhanger

Bill is home from college, on his way to meet his girlfriend, when his car swerves off the road.

This story contains one brief scene of graphic material.

Big thanks to Bill Love for sharing your story with us!

Produced by Annie Nguyen, original score by Leon Morimoto.

Cowboy Ghost

Valerie is lost in a snowstorm in rural Montana. She thinks she might not be able to get out, when she sees two headlights coming to her through the storm. Help is on the way – she hopes.

Thank you Valerie for sharing your story. Valerie’s story comes to us from the book “Trucker Ghost Stories” edited by Annie Wilder.

Produced by Eliza Smith, original score by Leon Morimoto, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 57

Sacré bleu! The damn beavers are on the loose! Belgium authorities are hot on the tail of Oliver Rubbers. A renegade with a wild mission... bring the beaver back. 

Thank you, Olivier Rubbers, for sharing your story with us! Olivier now lives with his wife and kids in Belgium and is still engaging in nature advocacy work.  

Produced by David Exumé, original score by Renzo Gorrio, special thanks to Isobel Cockerell, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Season 15 - Episode 56

The "Home Alone" Curse is all too real. The big-budget movie is in peril, and only one actor can save it. Not Macaulay Culkin. Not Joe Pesci. It's the goofball cop, Larry Hankin, with one iconic glazed donut.

This story contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you, Larry Hankin, for sharing your story! From Escape to Alcatraz to Friends to Seinfeld and Breaking Bad, Larry has left an indelible mark on your TV screens over the last five decades. Yes, Llarry has a book, entitled, That Guy: A Cautionary Memoir.

Special thanks to Sam Shaw for sharing Larry’s story with us. Sam is working on a documentary on Larry’s improvisational theater company, The Committee. A special shoutout to The Crow Comedy Club in Santa Monica for hosting Larry during one of their unforgettable storytelling nights. 

Engineering by Pat Mesiti-Miller & Miles Lassi. Artwork by Teo Ducot. 

Happy Holidays Snap Nation! Thank you for your support over the years -- we couldn't run this Snap train without you. 

Season 15 - Episode 55

Sieu is a young boy living in the big city of Phnom Penh, but he misses his old life in the Cambodian countryside. The air, the farms, but mostly… the animals. When the Khmer Rouge promises a return to the land, Sieu has no idea how far he and his family will have to go.

This story recounts aspects of the Khmer Rouge civil war including scenes of torture and death. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

BIG thanks to Sieu Do for sharing your story with us! There is so much that we were not able to share with you about Sieu and his family’s incredible journey. To find out more check out his book, A Cloak of Good Fortune.

Produced by Nikka Singh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 - Episode 54

A shot at the pros. Everybody wants it, but these women have it. Faatimah was a pro point guard with a world of experience when she started her own league with a call-out for true ballers. But when her own future is on the line, can she deliver? And when a little girl goes missing in the desert, one woman is driven to find her… no matter what.

STORIES

I Got Ball

A shot at the pros. Everybody wants it, but these women have it. Faatimah was a pro point guard with a world of experience when she started her own league with a call-out for true ballers. But when her own future is on the line, can she deliver?

This story contains strong language, sensitive listeneres please be advised.

A huge thank you to Faatimah A, Delia Moore, and everyone over at the Women’s Premier Basketball Association for sharing their stories with the Snap!

A few months after the 2023 WPBA season concluded, Faatimah signed a contract to play professionally in Kuwait, where she spent last season abroad and continues to play for the Jamaican Women’s National Team in international competition. 

Delia ended up having a successful rookie season for Ulster University in Belfast averaging Ten Points per game. She’s back in Ireland this season playing for the Limerick Sports Huskies. 

That piece was narrated by Brittani Burgess. She’s a documentary filmmaker and photographer out of Oakland who covers the WPBA . You can find links to Brittani’s work on all platforms at Bazeinteractions. 

Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Hunted

When a little girl goes missing in the desert, one woman is driven to find her… no matter what.

This story mentions domestic abuse, please take care while listening. Help is available, visit the National Domestic Abuse Hotline for resources. 

Thank you, Hannah, for sharing your amazing story! 

Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Renzo Gorrio.

Season 15 - Episode 53

This dog has everything: mustard, onions, a scrap with Giuliani, Vietnam Vets, and The Met. Everyone is coming for the Throne of the Hot Dog King of New York… Dan Rossi. And a camp for kids with dermatological issues reveals that some summer romances are more than skin deep.

STORIES

The Hot Dog King of New York

This dog has everything: mustard, onions, a scrap with Giuliani, Vietnam Vets, and The Met. Everyone is coming for the Throne of the Hot Dog King of New York… Dan Rossi.

This story contains strong language – sensitive listeners please be advised.

A huge thank you to Dan Rossi for sharing his story with Snap! There is so much that we were not able to share with you about Dan’s experience. To find out more check out his new memoir The New York Hot Dog King: From Rags to Riches to Less Than Rags. You can also follow Dan on social media.

Additional thanks to our friends at VICE, whose series MUNCHIES featured Dan back in 2019 and was a big inspiration for this story.

Listen to the King’s tribute song featured in this episode recorded by The Burner Band.

Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Clay Xavier, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Skin Deep

It’s days before the big dance at Camp Discovery — and there’s a problem. A few problems. But the kids at this camp are more used to problems than your average camper.

Thanks to everyone in this episode! Learn more about Camp Discovery at aad.org.

Produced by Sarah Harris with help from Anna Sussman. Sound design by Renzo Gorrio.

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 52

Would you go on a reality show if you didn’t know what it was about? Even if they promised you the adventure of a lifetime? In 2005, 12 people did just that. They answered an ad that read “Thrill Seekers wanted” and began auditioning for a show unlike any other in British television history.

This week on Snap, we're featuring Split Screen: Thrill Seekers, a new six part series that exposes how a TV show left contestants struggling to trust what’s actually real! Split Screen: Thrill Seekers is a co-production of Love + Radio and Vespucci for the CBC. All six episodes are out now and available wherever you get your podcasts!  

This episode contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

The series producer is Meera Kumar. The story editors are Thomas Curry and Steven Jackson. Thomas Curry is the managing producer. 

Audio mix and sound-design by Steven Jackson. Featured music from the RVNG catalog. Artwork by Anthony Campbell.

The staff of CBC Podcasts are senior producer Kate Evans, coordinating producer Anna Ashitey, Senior Manager Tanya Springer and director Arif Noorani.

The executive producers for Split Screen: Thrill Seekers are Chris Oke and Cesil Fernandes from the CBC, Matt Willis, Daniel Turcan and Johnny Galvin from Vespucci, and from Love + Radio, Nick van der Kolk. 

Guest Interviews: Louise Dekker, Ryan McBride, Steve Hester, Charlie Skelton.

Season 15 - Episode 51

We are thrilled to share our new show Fire Escape, in partnership with Wondery! This 10 episode series, hosted by Anna Sussman, explores one woman’s journey as an incarcerated firefighter as she fights fire from behind bars -- defying a system intent on burying her under the weight of her worst moment.

This episode contains strong language and mentions a car crash and its aftermath. Please take care while listening.

Episode 1: The Crash

How did Amika Mota go from a midwife and mother of three to a prisoner inside one of the largest women's prisons on Earth? 

Handcuffed to a hospital bed, awaiting trial, Amika tries to come to grips with the tragic crash that cost one man his life and took her away from her children. Inside the Chowchilla prison walls, she faces the "green cops" and the threat of solitary confinement. Outside the walls sits Firehouse Five, the home of the legendary crew of incarcerated firefighters called the Fire Girls.

Thank you, Amika Mota, for your help and generosity in sharing your story with us!!!

Fire Escape is a production of Snap Studios at KQED and Wondery. This series was created, written, and produced by Anna Sussman. 

For Snap Studios, our senior story editors are Mark Ristich and Nancy López. Marisa Dodge is our Director of Production. Original music by Renzo Gorrio, Dirk Schwarzhoff, and Doug Stuart. Doug Stuart also created our original theme song. Sound design and engineering by Miles Lassi. Special thanks to Pat Mesiti-Miller and the SF Fire Department. 

For Wondery, our senior story editor is Phyllis Fletcher. Our development producer is Eliza Mills. Clare Chambers, Lauren Dee and Mandy Gorenstein are our senior producers. Sarah Mathis is our managing producer. Our executive producers for Snap Studios are Glynn Washington and Mark Ristich. Executive producers for Wondery are Marshall Lewy, Morgan Jones, George Lavender and Jen Sargent. 

Binge all episodes of Fire Escape early and ad-free right now by signing up for Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify or Amazon Music with your Prime Membership. Start your free trial: www.wondery.com/links/fire-escape now.

Season 15 - Episode 50

A dolphin named Dr. Spock is in danger and NBA star Clifford Ray is the only man big enough to lend a hand. Plus, torrential rain is ripping through the Appalachians and the people of the mountain are all looking for Plan B.

STORIES

Just Another Day for Big Clifford Ray

A dolphin named Dr. Spock is in danger and NBA star Clifford Ray is the only man big enough to lend a hand.

A huge thank you to Clifford Ray and Mary O’Herron for sharing their story with the Snap! 

This year, Big Cliff and Author Laynie D. Weaver teamed up to bring Clifford and Dr. Spock’s story to life in an illustrated Children’s book titled “Big Clifford Ray Saves The Day.” Want more Big Cliff? Follow him on Instagram or X.

Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff , artwork by Teo Ducot

Plan B

Snap Storyteller, Dr. Ray Christian, found himself trapped by the rising floodwaters of hurricane Helene, he knew he had to flee. But he also knew that meant leaving behind all of his animals, including his favorite goat. 

Thank you, Ray, for sharing your story with us! 

Ray has shared some resources for hurricane Helene recovery: The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation and The Rock. 

For a world of Southern-baked personal narratives, interwoven with Black American history, listen to Ray's podcast: What's Ray Saying?

Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Derek Barber

Season 15 - Episode 49

For 110 days Peter Hammarstedt and his group of ocean vigilantes hunted the most notorious poacher of sea bass on the high seas, known as the Thunder. Their journey turns into an epic chase across 10,000 miles, two seas, and three oceans, through massive ice floors, violent clashes, and storms-tossed seas, where only one ship makes it home.

This story contains explicit language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you so much to Peter Hammarstedt for sharing your story with us!

Thanks as well to Ian Urbina. We first heard about this story thanks to his reporting. You can find his book, The Outlaw Ocean: Journeys Across the Last Untamed Frontier, on Knopf, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. Ian has a great collection of stories and books about the lawless ocean.

Also, BIG thanks to Brick City TV & Mark Benjamin for sharing the audio from their documentary, Ocean Warriors: Chasing the Thunder. You can see a trailer of the film here.

Produced by Nikka Singh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 – Episode 48 – Snap Classic

An engineer is stranded in Alaska's North Slope during a fierce blizzard. He and his crew encounter something out in the snow that they truly can’t explain. Plus, the story of a man who discovers that if you love someone enough, they never truly leave you. 

'Tis the season... and in dark celebration we're featuring supernatural stories from our evil-twin podcast, Spooked: true-life stories told by people who can barley believe it happened themselves. You can listen to Spooked on any podcast platform! 

STORIES

Northern Frights

As an engineer, Forrest is used to being able to solve problems and find solutions. But while working in the remote North Slope of Alaska, he learns that there are things in this world that just can’t be explained.

A big thanks to Forrest for sharing his story.

Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Doug Stuart, artwork by Teo Ducot. 

The Bull Ring

Todd discovers that if you love someone enough, they never truly leave you...

Thank you, Todd Narron, for sharing your story with us. If you want more stories from Todd, check out his books: Country Stories of Ghosts and Bad Men and Country Stories of Ghosts and Bad Men: Series 2 - The Dead Ones. 

Produced by Annie Nguyen, original score by Renzo Gorrio.

Spooked has a Youtube Channel! Subscribe now for a new scary story each week.

Season 15 - Episode 47

A ghost seeks forgiveness from beyond the grave and some photos make a woman question reality. It's time to summon the Shadow... 

This week on Snap, we're featuring supernatural stories from our evil-twin podcast, Spooked: true-life stories told by people who can barley believe it happened themselves. You can listen to Spooked on any podcast platform... Be afraid.

STORIES

Spooked LIVE: Glynn Washington x John Blake

Glynn's brother pays him a visit. And Journalist, John Blake, shares his family story about a ghost that sought forgiveness from beyond the grave. These stories were told at Spooked LIVE at the haunted Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles. 

Thanks, John, for sharing your story with us! To learn more about John's story reconciling with his mother’s family, be sure to check out his amazing memoir — More Than I Imagined: What  A Black Man Discovered About the White Mother He Never Knew. You can also follow his work on his website.

This story was produced by Zoë Ferrigno and Davey Kim. The original score was created and performed live by Doug Stuart and Brijean Murphy. 

Picture Perfect

When Susiy and her family visit a new town, they have no idea who they’ll be running into.

Suisy, thank you for sharing your story with us.

Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Lalin St. Juste, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Spooked has a Youtube Channel! Subscribe now for a new scary story each week.

Season 15 - Episode 46

You go all the way or YOU DON’T GO. 

Thank you to Murf Meyer for not dying. To Matt Mayer, for being our backflipping guru. And to Chris Gethard, for letting this whole sorry mess happen in the first place. We thank you.

You can listen to Chris Gethard’s Beautiful/Anonymous and New Jersey Is the World wherever you get your podcasts. Zak Rosen produces the show Best Advice. Listen here.

Produced by Zak Rosen with help from John Fecile. Original score by Renzo Gorrio. Artwork by Teo Ducot.

Season 15 - Episode 45

The Southern heat is turned up high as one man faces a filthy flock of sheep, a nonstop chatterbox, and an angry ram, all in a super explosive little shack. Plus, a story where an anarchist and an Amish family come together.

STORIES

Sheep Shearer

The Southern heat is turned up high as one man faces a filthy flock of sheep, a nonstop chatterbox, and an angry ram, all in a super explosive little shack. 

Thank you, Brian Lee Knopp, for telling your story! Brian is a retired Private Investigator and sheep shearer. He’s currently working on a collection of personal essays. 

Produced by David Exumé, original score by Renzo Gorrio.

Chaotic Good

Malaclypse was part of a dangerous anarchist group. They stole, they killed, they escaped, until one day when Malaclypse could run no further…

Dan has been playing and organizing LARPs for 20 years. He posts bad LARP advice on Twitter at LarpTips.

Produced by Jazmin Aguilera, original score by Renzo Gorrio.

Season 15 - Episode 44

When Umid is trapped behind enemy lines, he gets help... from two of the world’s most dangerous men. And a glitch in time brings mayhem to a man’s life day after day… no matter how many times he resets his clocks.

This episode contains some strong language. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

STORIES

The League of Impersonators

When Umid Isabaev is trapped behind enemy lines, he gets help… from two of the world’s most dangerous men.

Thank you, Umid, for sharing your story with Snap!

Thanks to Ethan Herschenfeld who voiced Umid’s words, and to, Mars Lipowski, who was the voice of Steve Poland. BIG thanks as well to our translators for this piece, Muhitdin Ahunhodjaev and Magdalena Balz.

The three fake heads of state reunited recently in Poland for a magazine photo shoot! This photo will also be on our social media accounts.

Want more from the Kim Jong Un Look-alike? Check out his Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Trying to hear from the Putin Look-alike? Visit his website.

Produced by John Fecile & Anne Ford, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Time Glitch

Joel Gheen is out of the military, newly married, and in college. His new life is going great… if he could just catch the damn bus.

Thank you, Joel, for sharing your story with us!

If you’re hungry for more details about Joel’s experience with a real-life glitch in the matrix, check out his website. Joel also has a fun podcast that covers weird topics from a Biblical perspective. Listen to hear all the paranormal stuff that never gets discussed from a traditional church pulpit or Bible study.

Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff.

Season 15 – Episode 43

Four comics score a sweet gig in the Deep South. It’s champagne, a Benz, and maybe even a Kevin Hart appearance. But their dream of life behind the velvet rope is about to get a rude awakening. Plus, do we take the Honolulu ghost tour with Lopaka, or the big time wresting match with Johnny All Black? You only get one double life on the latest Snap.

STORIES

We Have A Problem

Comics, Lamarr Todd, Matt Black, and Ken Jones, score a sweet gig in the Deep South. It’s champagne, a Benz, and maybe even a Kevin Hart appearance. But their dream of life behind the velvet rope is about to get a rude awakening. 

BIG thanks to, Lamarr Todd, for sharing his story with Snap! Lamarr is a standup comedian and a featured judge at First Person Arts in Philadelphia. Find out about his tour dates and current exploits on Instagram and X.

Matt Black and Ken Jones are also lighting up comedy stages around the country! Find Matt on Instagram. Find Ken on Instagram and X. 

Produced by Justin Kramon, original score by Clay Xavier.

Double Booked

Do we take the Honolulu ghost tour with Lopaka, or the big time wresting match with Johnny All Black? You only get one double life on the latest Snap.

Thank you, Lopaka, for sharing your story! Lopaka still leads ghost tours in Honolulu today. 

Want to hear some of Lopaka’s stories from the dark side? Head on over to our evil twin sister show, Spooked... you can listen on any podcast platform.

Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Season 15 - Episode 42

Snap Studios introduces an epic collaboration years in the making... "Mind Your Own." A new storytelling show hosted and produced by Lupita Nyong'o, that navigates what it means to belong all from an African perspective.

Lupita Nyong’o knows what home feels like. But where exactly is it? In Mexico, where she was born? Kenya, where she grew up? Or the States, where she’s spent the past 20 years?

Like Lupita, millions of Africans are spread out across the globe following family, searching for love, building futures and creating stories. It's these stories – wild and messy, intimate and joyous – that she wants to hear. 

Join Lupita as she shares tales of her own and dives into the lives of real people finding their way in new worlds of every kind.

Episode 1: The Sound of Home

Sound travels in all directions, but your feet can only follow in one.

“Losing My Accent”: Lupita takes on an American accent when she becomes an actor-in-training at Yale.

Original score by Ian Hughes Pelton AKA Tofu Jack.

“Obaa Sima”: How long can a song stay in your heart? A musical journey from Ghana to Germany to Canada transports Yaw Atta-Owusu from the toy store to the dance floor.

Big thanks to Yaw for sharing his story with us! Check out the Obaa Sima album featured in this episode. Thanks as well to Awesome Tapes From Africa for sharing Yaw’s music with us.

Produced by Marisa Dodge and Regina Bediako with assistance from Bo Walsh. Original score by Clay Xavier, with additional music from Marla Kether and Ata Kak.

Original Mind Your Own theme song by Sandra Lawson-Ndu AKA Sandu Ndu x Peachcurls ft. Ehiorobo. This episode also featured the song Show My Side by CKay ft. Amaarae.

Executive Producers: Glynn Washington and Mark Ristich

Managing Editor: Regina Bediako

Director of Production: Marisa Dodge

Series Producers: David Exumé and Priscilla Alabi

Music Supervisor: Sandra Lawson-Ndu

Story Scouts: Ashley Okwuosa, Fiona Nyong’o, Jessica Kariisa, Lesedi Oluko Moche

Editors: Nancy López and Anna Sussman

Engineering: Miles Lassi

Operations Manager: Florene Wiley

Story Consultant: John Fecile

Graphic Design: Jemimah Ekeh

Original Artwork: Mateus Sithole

Special Thanks: Allan Coye, Jake Kleinberg, Samara Still, Sarah Yoo, Warner Music Group, and Afripods.

Episode transcripts can be found here.

Mind Your Own is a production of KQED’s Snap Studios, with sales and distribution by Lemonada Media. Hosted and produced by Lupita Nyong’o. 

Two boys hunting for crystals in the forest learn something out there is also on the hunt for them. And one wrong turn out on the road leads a group of friends to the most sinister encounter of their lives. 

Snap presents a ritual as old as our treachery, “Campfire Tales: Season of the Wolf.” Journey into the void while you still can... before this gate slams shut. This Spooked Spectacular features supernatural stories told by people who can barely believe it happened themselves. 

Spooked has a new season starting Friday the 13th of September! Brand new episodes will drop each and every week until All Hallows' Eve. Be afraid. Cross over and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and podcast platforms everywhere 9/13/24.

STORIES

The Woods Have Eyes

Nate and Keith love to explore the forests in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, hunting for stones and crystals to add to their collection. But something out there is also on the hunt… for them. 

Thank you, Nate, for sharing your story with Spooked!

Produced by Erick Yáñez, original score by Doug Stuart.

Buffer Night 

One wrong turn leads Kyan and his friends to the most sinister encounter of their lives.

Thanks to Kyan Bond for sharing his story. If you know what’s up with Buffer Night, drop us a line.

Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff.

Season 15 - Episode 40

Cheyenne Brady knew next to nothing about the US census when she was given the job of counting everyone on her reservation. Writer Julian Brave Noisecat follows her through the ups and downs of the 2020 census, culminating in the first-ever Census Powwow.

This story features descriptions of genocide and historical trauma, sensitive listeners please be advised.

A big, big thank you to everyone on the Fort Berthold Reservation. Especially Cheyenne Brady and her family: Novi Runs Above, Holy Rope, Tayvin, Poncho, Tookie, Uncle Thomas, and Grandma Florence.

Thank you also to Charlie Moran, Tavares Fimbres, Gabrielle Wilkinson, and Braedyn Taft, and Jazz Bearstail. Thanks to our friends at KMHA radio: Anne Morsette, Will Maguire, Ricky Raine, and Shelley Krueger for administering a rapid COVID test.

And big thanks to the whole Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation.

Sincerest thanks to Dr. Cheryl Ann Kary, Cheryl Keepseagle, Logan Davis, Barb Anguino, D’Vera Cohn,  Byard Duncan, David Rodriguez, and Lycia Ortega Maddocks.

This story was produced in partnership with Type Investigations.

The original score was by Cheflee and Pat Mesiti-Miller

This story was produced and reported by Julian Brave NoiseCat and John Fecile

It was written by Julian Brave NoiseCat

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 39

Chase the storm until it chases you. Tornadoes! They don’t look like they do in the movies. When you’re in the path of one, all you’ll see is a wall of black wind. This week, Snap is heading directly into the monster’s maw to chase storms that should be left alone.

Big thanks to Craig Wolter! Thank you, Windom High School... especially Sarah, Benny, and Danielle. Crystal Frank, another student on the trip, shared her home video with us. This story would not have been possible without her.

Many thanks also to Sue, for sharing your story with us. Sue’s memoir is titled The Lake Turned Upside Down. 

Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

If you listened to our radio broadcast and want to find out what happened to the 24 people that shut themselves in a beer cooler to wait out one of the strongest tornadoes in recorded history, you can listen to the full length version of the "Eye of the Storm" story here. 

Season 15 - Episode 38

Amateur treasure hunters race to uncover $100,000 in gold and silver after a man buries his entire jewelry store around the state of Michigan. Hunters are given clues and left to explore the woods.

This episode contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

BIG thanks to Johnny & everyone out on the hunt for sharing your story with us! Learn more about Johnny and his treasure quest on his website and Facebook.

Produced by Will McCarthy, original score by Derek Barber, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic Season 15 – Episode 37

When Dr. Ayaz Virji first set foot in Dawson, Minnesota, he didn’t know what to expect. He was a brown Muslim man walking into a predominantly white rural town. But much to his surprise Ayaz and his family fit right in. Dawson quickly became home and his neighbors became like his extended family. Then came the presidential election of 2016.

A very big thank you to Ayaz and Mussarat Virji, and to Mandy France and Doug Peterson for sharing their story with Snap!

For more, please make sure to check out Ayaz Virji’s book, Love Thy Neighbor: A Muslim Doctor’s Struggle for Home in Rural America.

Produced by Nancy Lopez, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 36

A rock climber hits the jackpot in Yosemite and Moss Hills saves the day with his music on a sea cruise. Two stories… double the trouble.

STORIES

Lake Chronicopia

Dale Bard was a young rock climber in Yosemite in the ’70s. Back then, rock climbing was an obscure, expensive passion. And he came across the most unbelievable cash cow you’ve ever heard of.

Thank you, Cisco DeVries, Papa Tom DeVries, all the climbers that helped us, and a big huge thanks to the filmmakers Greg Laut and Nicholas Rosen from Sender Films. Check out our link to their amazing documentary on this very story, “Valley Uprising.”

Produced by Anna Sussman & Julia Dewitt, original score by Leon Morimoto

The Sinking of the Cruise Ship Oceanos

Moss Hills takes us on a sea cruise and saves the day with his music.

Thanks, Moss, for sharing your story with us! Love this story? Learn more about the sinking of the Oceanos or watch a video of the ship’s final moments!

Produced by Joe Rosenberg, original score by Renzo Gorrio

Snap Classic – Season 15 – Episode 35

A severed head turns up in a small rural town. While police investigate this as a crime, they look at disturbed graves, search for missing people — suspect a killer. But the forensic artist on the case has a very different theory for how the head ended up in the woods.

This story contains references to forensic material, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you to Michelle Vitali & Mike O’Brien for sharing this story with Snap.

Produced by Nancy López, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 34

Hold onto your mullets! British drummer Nick Murphy and his band are overjoyed after signing a record deal with THE Quincy Jones in 1984. That is, until a chance encounter with one of the biggest stars in the world changes everything. And the story of a talented luchador who has an uphill battle to get the crowd and the press on his side.

STORIES 

Feelabeelia: One-Hit Wonder?

Hold onto your mullets! British drummer Nick Murphy and his band are overjoyed after signing a record deal with THE Quincy Jones in 1984. That is, until a chance encounter with one of the biggest stars in the world changes everything. 

Major thanks to Nick Murphy for sharing your story with Snap. Nick still lives in Leicester today and he’s continuing to make his dreams come true as one of the oldest students at De Montfort University, where he studies music technology. 

Produced by Regina Bediako, original score by Clay Xavier.

Cassandro El Exotico

Cassandro is an up-and-coming luchador, a professional Mexican wrestler. He wants to get to the big arenas. He’s got the talent, no doubt. But because he’s also one of the only openly gay fighters, he’s got an uphill battle to get the crowd and the press on his side.

This story contains graphic imagery regarding suicide. Please take care while listening. 

Thank you for sharing your story, Cassandro!

Produced by Eliza Smith, sound design by Leon Morimoto

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 33

An undercover ATF agent is going full throttle on a highway to hell as he tries to infiltrate the most notorious motorcycle club on the planet.

This story contains police violence, descriptions of violence, and graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

BIG thanks to Jay Dobyns for sharing his story with Snap. There is so much that we were not able to share with you about Jay’s experience. To find out more check out his memoirs “No Angel” and “Catching Hell.”

Special thanks to George Christie.

The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club did not respond to requests for comment on this story.

Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 32

Your daddy is a bank robber, the world is on fire, and grandma’s last dress is in stitches. There’s got to be some way out of this... Chasing the Rainbow.

STORIES

Salmon Daddy 

After being fed up with life in rural Virginia, 15-year-old Deni Béchard calls his estranged father with one request: “I want to go live with you.” His dad, he found out, was a bank robber and Deni wanted a life right out of a crime novel. But when he finally gets to Vancouver, he finds out his dad doesn’t quite live up to the legend.

Thanks, Deni, for sharing your story with Snap! Check out all of Deni's books and see what he's up to on his website. You can also follow him on Instagram or X.

Produced by David Exumé. Original Score by Renzo Gorrio.

As the World Burns 

What happens when the world around you starts to burn? 

Performed by Josh Healey at Snap Judgment LIVE! at San Francisco's Nourse Theater.

Music composed by Alex Mandel and performed by Alex Mandel, Tim Frick, and David Brandt.

The Funeral Dress

Paul Valdez loved making dresses with his grandmother at her bridal shop in Santa Fe, but one particular dress he didn’t want to make… 

Thanks, Paul, for sharing your story!

Produced by Jazmin Aguilera. Sound Design by Renzo Gorrio.

Season 15 - Episode 31

A woman’s life changes forever when she decides to tell a secret that she’s kept for 23 years. The first all-woman race car driving team in the Middle East is forced to find the center of gravity on and off the track. And a young boy makes waves in his family.

STORIES

Racing Harold

Glynn races a rival for the ultimate prize.

Score and Sound Design by Pat Mesiti-Miller

The Secret Life of Katherine Ann Power

What happens when you decide to keep a secret for a really long time...And then, you decide to tell.

To learn more about Katherine’s experience, check out her book Doing Time: Papers from Framingham Prison

Produced by Adizah Eghan, original score by Renzo Gorrio

Speed Sisters

Marah is the best racer on the Speed Sisters team--the first all-female racing collective in the Arab world. That is, until Betty joins the team.

This story is a collaboration with Amber Fares, director of the documentary Speed Sisters. 

Produced by Eliza Smith, sound production by Leon Morimoto

Translation and voice over: Amber Fares, as Marah. Jazmin Aguilera, as Betty. Avery Trufelman, as Maysoon. Mark Ristich, as Marah’s dad. Pat Mesiti-Miller, as Khaled.

The Boy Who Made Waves

Joe Blair is a pipe fitter in Iowa who writes in his spare time. He is the father of four, including one autistic son—Michael--who has been both a source of joy and a source of stress.

This story was brought to us by Modern Love: the Podcast, a collaboration between The New York Times and WBUR Boston. It takes essays from the paper’s popular Sunday column and matches them with top talent from the stage and screen. Mykelti Williamson, who played "Bubba" in Forrest Gump and most recently Gabriel in the Oscar-nominated film "Fences" reads Joe Blair's essay "For The Boy Who Makes Waves."

For more incredible stories of modern Love, go visit the Modern Love website and subscribe to their podcast.

Then check out Joe Blair’s memoir, By The Iowa Sea, about the joys and sorrows of life on the great plains. And if you haven't already, go see Mykelti Williamson in Fences, directed by Denzel Washington. 

Original score by Pat Mesiti-Miller

Episode artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 30

Jen is about to start an internship at a museum. But this isn’t a typical museum… it’s built inside two old, historic mansions. By this time, the original owners of these two old homes are long gone–or are they? And a night nurse dedicated to his job loves to help people. But when spirits of former patients reach out to him, he’s not sure if he can care for them.

We proudly present supernatural stories our evil-twin podcast, Spooked. Spooked features stories told by people that can barely believe it happened themselves. Be afraid. Listen on any podcast platform! 

STORIES

Fright at the Museum

Jen is about to start an internship at a museum. But this isn’t a typical museum… it’s built inside two old, historic mansions. By this time, the original owners of these two old homes are long gone — or are they?

Thank you, Jen, for sharing your story with Spooked.

Produced by Zoe Ferrigno, original score by Leon Morimoto

Night Nurse

Dennis is a nurse, a helper. But when spirits of former patients reach out to him, he’s not sure if he can care for them.

Produced by Chris Hambrick, original score by Dakim

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 29

Do you remember the moment you saw your first love? Rodney Hines sure does. He was 13 years old, and it was the 4th of July. His parents took him to their friends’ house where he saw Shani Browning. For the next two decades, their lives each resembled a rollercoaster ride with dramatic ups and downs.

One day on the yard at Solano State Prison, Hines was recounting the details of how the relationship with his childhood crush transformed into a tragic love affair. Uncuffed producer Anthony Ivy realized he needed to get Hines into the studio to tell his story.

Produced by Anthony Ivy with help from Andrew Stelzer, Sonia Paul, Kathy Novak, Angela Johnston, Ninna Gaensler-Debs, and sound designer Eric 'Maserati-E 'Abercrombie.

This story, Hole In The Heart: A Love Stronger Than Prison Walls originally aired on Uncuffed. Uncuffed is KALW's award-winning radio training program and podcast in California prisons. Listen on any podcast platform! 

Season 15 - Episode 28

Carol dreamt of being the best elephant trainer in the world. When Carol met Tarra, a baby Asian elephant, she fell in love and wanted to teach her everything. As their friendship grew, Tarra became Carol's most important teacher.

BIG thanks to Carol for sharing her story with us! Carol bought a piece of land and created a refuge for Tarra -- The Elephant Refuge North America, in Attapulgus, Georgia. 

Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 27 

A woman recounts her Aunt’s fairytale love story while searching for her own Modern Romance. An African princess learns she is truly beautiful. And a precocious eight-year-old finds himself on the brink of a revolution.

STORIES

Modern Romance

In the second half of her life, Stephanie found her classic Hollywood romance. Now she attempts to understand the strange and confusing world of dating apps to help her niece – and the show’s host Nichole – find her happily ever after.

This story comes to us from The Secret Adventures of Black People, hosted by Nichole Hill. This incredible podcast tells the stories of Black people holding it down across space and time. Be sure to check out the show and subscribe to the podcast at TheSecretAdventuresOfBlackPeople.com

Stay in touch by joining the newsletter, following their Instagram, or by sending an email to secretadventuresofblackpeople@gmail.com

Modern Romance was written and produced by Nichole Hill with production assistance by Shonte Hill, and story editing assistance by Talia Bender. Special thanks to Stephanie Camolli!

Music: Epidemic Sound

Beautiful – Sonya Renee Taylor

An African princess learns she is truly beautiful.

This story was performed by Sonya Renee Taylor at Snap LIVE in DC. Sonya Renee Taylor is an internationally acclaimed performance poet, actress, educator, and activist. The LIVE score was composed by amazing Alex Mandel & performed by Alex Mandel, David Brandt, and Tim Frick. Watch Sonya’s Snap LIVE performance.

Liberation – Latif Doman

When Latif Doman is growing up in Philly, he takes his schoolwork seriously… which is unfortunate for the parents in his neighborhood.

Many thanks to Latif and Story District for bringing us this story!

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 26

Four hairstylists compete to win the Bronner Bros Hair Battle, a one-of-a-kind hairstyling showdown. Winning this competition doesn't just represent a feather in one's cap, it's a stepping stone to getting celebrity clients. Big hair. Big personalities.

BIG thanks to all the stylists who shared their stories with us!

Ashley Payne, the bob queen, moved her salon to a new location, a private, appointment-only, suite. She suffered some health blows and started a gofundme to help pay for a liver transplant.

Check out Tammie B’s work! Que Barnes is still at the helm of her salon in Atlanta. Terrence Davidson, the king of hair, started selling hair products online called Kingz N Queenz.

Produced by Chris Hambrick & Nancy Lopez, with assistance from Shaina Shealy

Original score by Marco Prestige, sound design by Pat Mesiti-Miller, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 25

Drama Club is the happy, safe space for Lee and Parker until their school play becomes a homophobic middle school meltdown. The lights get turned up to 10, the adults are in a media frenzy, and the kids are just trying to figure it all out.

STORIES

Don't Say Gay Dads

Drama Club is the happy, safe space for Lee and Parker until their school play becomes a homophobic middle school meltdown. The lights get turned up to 10, the adults are in a media frenzy, and the kids are just trying to figure it all out.

This story contains descriptions of abuse directed at gay persons. Please take care while listening.

A very big thank you to Lee and Parker—who are best friends to this day.  Thanks as well to Jamie McGonnigal.

Produced by Mark Betancourt, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff

Playground Bullies and Dark Secrets 

In middle school, Mike has a secret. But no one has ever seen “it.” 

This was performed at Snap LIVE in Los Angeles.

“Mighty” Mike McGee is an international spoken word artist, writer, performer, speaker, slam poet and comic. McGee is the first slam poet to win both the American National Poetry Slam Individual Grand Championship and the Individual World Poetry Slam Championship. 

Original score composed and performed by Alex Mandel, Tim Frick, and David Brandt.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 24

Two sisters, Magi and Memo, track down an American man accused of sexual abuse at a children’s home in Kenya. It’s a story spanning two continents… following those who give everything to make things right. This episode is a 2024 Gracie Award Winner.

This story, while not graphic, does involve child abuse, including sexual abuse, and the death of a child. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you so much to everyone in this story. To Magi and Memo, for sharing your lives with us over the past two years. Magi has started a GoFundMe to raise money for the survivors of the Dow Children’s Home.

To Janice and especially to Joy — Kongoi for your courage and your strength. Kongoi as well to Geoffrey Ng’tich, Beatrice Korir, and Joshua Abudoh.

Translation by Caroline Chebet

Recording engineers: Josh Wilcox, Ryan Geesaman, and Coconut

Original score by Renzo Gorrio

Produced and reported by Halima Gikandi and John Fecile

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 22

Raymond Christian is back with a story that gives whole new meaning to the phrase “rear infantry.”

Thanks, Ray, for sharing this story! Listen to Ray's show “What’s Ray Saying” wherever you get your podcasts.

Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 22

It’s the 70’s, two young girls are caught up in the allure of smoking, and the whole scene is about to blow. And a veteran clown knows one thing… don’t bleed in front of the children.

STORIES

Smoke Rings

Back in the 70s, smoking was cool. Angie was not.

Thank you to Angie and her mom Marita for sharing this story.

Produced by John Fecile, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff

Charles the Clown

When it's time to put on a good face... sometimes you just gotta improvise.

A huge thank you to the one and only Charles the Clown for sharing his experience with the Snap. Charles Kraus has been a children’s entertainer for more than 40 years. Check out his videos, songs, magic tricks, and puppet routines! You can even book Charles for your next event in Seattle and now in the San Francisco Bay Area .

Produced by Bo Walsh , original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 21

When twin rovers named Spirit and Opportunity landed on Mars twenty years ago, they were only supposed to last 90 Martian days. But years passed, they were still alive, and engineers kept taking care of them...

We proudly present a This is Love Spotlight — a story from out of this world, about two robots on Mars who just would not die. And the people whose job it was to check on them every day, who started to think about them as family.

This story Tau = 10.8, is from the podcast This is Love, part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. 

This is Love, hosted by Phoebe Judge is a show that tells stories about a lot of different kinds of love — sometimes love between people, sometimes not. It’s made by the same team that makes what was one of the first true crime podcasts out there — a show called Criminal. 

They have dozens more stories like this available wherever you get your podcasts! Their website is thisislovepodcast.com. 

Artwork by Julienne Alexander 

MUSIC

• “Spindash” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Oriel” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Line Exchange” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Stickle” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Idle Ways” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Vernouillet_Swing Swing” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “The Gran Dias” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “The Longshoreman” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Borough_Alternate Opening” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Awash” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Parissi” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Pxl Htra” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Trailmaker” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Bundt” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Pall Canyon” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Etude 3 Chessanta_Alt Arp” by Blue Dot Sessions
• “Town Market_Guitar” by Blue Dot Sessions

Season 15 - Episode 20 

In sweet home Alabama, from the heart of Libya, comes a renegade candidate with a boombox and a head scarf. The cheerleaders, the geeks, the dweebs and the freaks are about to send a message the country needs right after 9/11.

A very big thank you to Yasmin!

Yasmin is a comedian and storyteller. You can follow her on Instagram @yasminelhahahady or TikTok @yasmin_elhady. She first told a version of this story at Story District in Washington, DC.  

Produced by Justin Kramon, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 19

She’s stunning grey, sleek as a race car, and stronger than all the boys. Her name is Winning Colors and for Dino and Miami she’s the long shot of a lifetime.

This story contains strong language and includes descriptions of gambling, sensitive listeners please be advised.

If gambling has become a problem for you or for someone you know, you can call 1-800-GAMBLER (426-2537) to seek free, confidential, 24/7 problem gambling assistance.

A huge thank you to Mark “Miami” Paul for sharing his story with Snap!

Wondering what happened to Winning Colors? After her 1988 Kentucky Derby crown the big grey filly retired the following year with eight career wins. In 2000, she was inducted into the U.S. National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. In 2008, at the age of 23 Winning Colors was laid to rest in Lexington, Kentucky.

To find out more about Miami and Winning Colors’ story – check out Miami’s book, “The Greatest Gambling Story Ever Told” 

Original score by Renzo Gorrio, produced by Bo Walsh, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 18

Some roads are long and some roads wind. Some roads show you things you’d never think you’d find…

This week we’re featuring stories from our evil twin podcast Spooked! You can listen to Spooked for free on any podcast platform. Be afraid.

STORIES

Demon Dog

A mysterious wolf creature hunts Chuck and his family on winding mountain roads. Chuck can hardly believe it was real, until he finds an old legend that confirms it.

Thank you, Chuck, for sharing your story!

Produced by Greta Weber and Chris Hambrick, original score by Yari Bundy

Deception Pass

When Shirley gets sent out on a trucking job two weeks before Christmas, she thinks the biggest thing she has to fear is winter weather. But she’s about to learn, there are scarier things than storms out on the road.

Thanks, Shirley, for sharing your story with Spooked!

Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Doug Stuart

Night Watch

When Dave took on the graveyard shift at the station, he saw all kinds of stuff. But he never saw anything quite like this.

Thanks, Dave, for sharing your story with us.

Produced by Annie Nguyen, original score by Davey Kim

Artwork by Teo Ducot 

Season 15 - Episode 17

Melissa McFadden always saw police officers as protectors. But when she became an officer, she found herself with almost no one to protect her.

This episode contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised. 

Thank you, Lt. McFadden for sharing your story with us! Check out McFadden’s book: Walking the Thin Black Line

Funding for this episode was provided by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, as part of its "Expanding Awareness of the Science of Intellectual Humility" initiative, supported by the John Templeton Foundation. 

Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 16 

Things go horribly wrong for a safari guide on the Zambezi River when he comes face-to-face with a rogue hippo. And Dr. Ray Christian breaks the first rule about Fight Club and tells us all about it. 

This episode contains graphic imagery. Please take care while listening.

STORIES 

Belly of the Beast

Things go horribly wrong for a safari guide on the Zambezi River when he comes face-to-face with a rogue hippo.

Thank you, Paul, for sharing your story with Snap! Check out Paul Templer’s memoir, What’s Left of Me.

Produced by Erika Lantz, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Fight Club

The first rule about fight club is you do not talk about fight club. Dr. Ray Christian breaks that rule.

You can hear more of Ray on his podcast: What's Ray Saying?

Produced by Mark Ristich, original score by Renzo Gorrio

Snap Classic - Season 15 - Episode 15