The Moth

In this episode, the truths we keep from our family, and the lies we tell for them. Sibling mayhem, multigenerational secrets, and a surprise while watching CBS. This hour is hosted by Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media, producer of The Moth Radio Hour. Anagha Mahajan finds a creative solution to stay out of the summer heat. Okeoma Erojikwe is stuck between a cultural tradition and loyalty to her grandmother.  Angela Derecas Taylor uncovers a dark truth about her grandparents. Graham Shelby first sees his Vietnam veteran father on a television special. Podcast # 733

In this hour, stories of questions—asked, answered, implied, and open-ended. From personal inquiries in professional situations to domestic decisions. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Shahab Asta's mother questions his classroom antics. Grace Ambrose says yes to a casual relationship. Dr. Tonya Matthews considers how to respond to an uncomfortable interview question.  Ladislao Loera wonders if he has what it takes to be a caregiver.  Rabbinical student Aaron Potek answers tough questions. Podcast # 938

In a few days, we’ll share a Moth Radio Hour all about questions, but, we’re getting a bit of a head start and giving you the answers to questions you didn’t even ask yet. Yes, with these stories, we’re focusing on getting answers, messing around and finding out, and what happens when you receive an answer you might not have expected. This episode was hosted by Jenifer Hixson. Storytellers: Jason Jaimes learns some lessons when he eats a piece of candy from his parents’ nightstand. Andrea Roske-Metcalfe has to explain a photo to her new congregation. Podcast # 937

A special episode live from the United Palace in Washington Heights, New York. Subway station romance, lost names, and buried truths. This episode is hosted by CJ Hunt, with additional hosting by Jay Allison, producer of The Moth Radio Hour.   As a high school student, Lin-Manuel Miranda reveals more of himself than he realized while writing his first musical. Having grown up in the world of music, Quiara Alegría Hudes finds her college music program lacking.   Thanks to his wife, Led Black discovers a new type of masculinity.    Podcast # 783

Two stories about performing, from the heart of the entertainment industry to the furthest reaches of the earth. This episode was hosted by Marc Sollinger. Storytellers: Darrell Thorne performs on an Antarctic cruise… and encounters some choppy seas. Brittany Ross moves to LA and becomes an in-demand party princess.

In this hour, stories of clean breaks—emotional and physical. Tidy endings, broken bones, and fresh starts. This episode is hosted by Moth Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Theresa Wiggins starts—and ends—a romance.  Adelle Onyango attempts to keep family traditions alive, in the wake of a divorce. Erik Heen needs a statue to open his soda.  In the midst of a mishap, Courtney Jae Renee must choose between her finances and her pride. Safia Ibrahim is determined to be ordinary. Podcast # 936

On this episode, the perfect hair and the perfect donor. This episode was hosted by Dan Kennedy. Storytellers: Diavian Walters has a relationship with hair that is shear madness. Lori Gottlieb searches for the perfect donor and the whole package. Podcast # 537

In this hour, stories about and by people who are unapologetically themselves. Knowing where you belong on the ballfield, writing as the ultimate means of self-expression, and the pub that serves as a home for a band of experimental musicians. This hour is hosted by Jay Allison, producer of this radio show. In an attempt to put himself out there, Eric Thomas joins a gay softball league. Renita Walls enters a poetry contest to promote the movie "Soul Plane." Hayley Dunning decides to confess her feelings to her colleague. Heidi Stuber is forced to decide between the needs of her husband and the needs of her child. An extraordinary pub in southern England becomes the crate for Joe Jackson's lifelong dedication to music. Podcast # 714

On this episode… liquid nostalgia. We’ve got two stories about those fountains of childhood sugar highs and summer memories - bug juice and slushees. This episode was hosted by Michelle Jalowski. Storytellers: Stacey Bader Curry goes to sleepaway camp, and is faced with a sticky situation. Denzell Jobson makes an unexpected friend because of anime.

In this hour, stories of accepting one's lot and making the best out of tough situations. This episode is hosted by Moth Director Jodi Powell. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Rob Carr's acting teacher forces him to loosen up.  Beth Ireland goes roller skating after a 25 year hiatus. Jessi Realzola describes the challenges of being an undocumented immigrant.  Reporter Dinesh Ramde is tasked with writing an obituary for a fallen soldier.  Devorah Agami describes learning to live with Bell's Palsy.  Podcast # 934

On this episode, we’re going from the heights of Mt. Olympus to the depths of the soul. This episode was hosted by Chloe Salmon. Storytellers: Caroline Connolly goes hiking and discovers something about herself. Kristina Nasi makes an important confession. Podcast # 933

In this hour, challenges that reveal one's truest self. The insatiable needs of an electronic pet, being forced to face one's fears, and the dogged pursuit of one's dreams. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. 8-year-old Sara Jonsson realizes her new toy is more responsibility than she bargained for.  Mike Maloch has to face his fears on the job.  Samira Sahebi has an unexpected visit to the ER. Beth Bradley inches toward a breaking point near the end of a 14k hike up a mountain in Colorado. Shaun Leonardo pursues his dream of becoming a luchador.  Podcast # 757

In this episode, Jamie Trowbridge learns a couple of lessons from his father - about sailing and about life. This episode is hosted by Angelica Lindsey-Ali. Podcast # 720

In this hour, stories of the ever-changing relationships between children and their parents. Care giving and receiving, attempts at reconciliation, and over-sharing. This episode is hosted by Jay Allison, producer of this show. Steve Glickman deals with his parents after moving back in with them.Saloni Singh receives an email from her late father. Samantha Higdon doesn't have deep conversations with her mother. Dionne Stroter has to make medical decisions on her father's behalf. Deborah Nagan-Lee inherits her father's helpful nature.April Salazar describes her unconventional upbringing with a very free-spirited mother. Podcast #940

Summer has us thinking about travel… about vacations, beach trips, BBQs and picnics, starry nights in the great outdoors, and exploring other countries. But also, it has us thinking about what makes travel special - the people you visit, and the people you travel with. So, in this episode, two stories about trips and sojourns in which the meaning and memories are made because of friends and family. This episode was hosted by Sarah Austin Jenness. Storytellers: Caroline Connolly spends a summer with her grandma - drinking coffee, strolling the mall and making memories. Marjory Cohen goes on a special trip to Vegas with a friend. Podcast # 931

In this hour, finding one's place among family. Caregivers, care recipients, and stewards of cremains. This episode is hosted by Moth Artistic Director Catherine Burns. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: After her sari ceremony and debutante ball, Swapna Kakani realizes what coming of age really means. Roz Chast isn't sure where to lay her parents to rest. Zellia Enjoli Tatiana's role of "older sister" gets put to the test. Adam Wade is an awkward teen who spends every weekend with his adoring grandma and her sister. Podcast # 749

This week, stories all about making it work in the city. Hosted by: Jodi Powell Storytellers: David Brown acclimates to Boston in a surprising way. Randi Skaggs finds clarity in the infamous NYC blackout. Podcast # 718

In this hour, stories of turning points, decisions, and the moments that come to define us—from summer camp to nightclubs. This episode is hosted by Moth Director Jodi Powell. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Jeff Birdsall leads a motley crew on a wilderness canoe trip. Lauren Allen really wants to be good at something. Madeline Pots's artist husband encases her in plaster of Paris. Jean Cardeño meets the man at the center of her failing relationship. Duncan Hills's septuagenarian father takes up clubbing. Errol McClendon receives some heartfelt gifts. Podcast # 930

On this episode, we’re putting on our masks, getting our makeup ready, and donning our costumes. This episode was hosted by Kate Tellers. Storytellers: Annie Wiborg learns that dressing up as McGruff the Crime Dog is a bit more difficult than it might appear. Paul Davis struggles to reconcile his dreams of being an artist with his day job as a party clown.

Ready the spotlight and raise the curtains! In this hour, performers, sour notes, tough critics, and a unique take on Mary Poppins. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Laura Hitchcock is entrusted with her teacher's prized trumpet. Jason Mesches plays a medley of his own creation for his unconventional piano teacher. Phil Wang contends with his lisp during his primary school's production of Mary Poppins.  Ashley Johnson moves to LA to pursue her dream of acting. A series of unfortunate events befalls Liz Phair when she performs at the Rockefeller Center tree lighting.

On this episode, we take a ride in a car - exploring the places they take us and the memories we make along the way. This episode was hosted by Chloe Salmon. Storytellers:  Oscar Saavedra tries to make sure his mom doesn't find out what he did to the family's car. Nina Slowinski learns about her father's car, and her father. Podcast # 710

In this hour, three artists known for their work on stage tell their personal stories on The Moth's. This episode is hosted by Moth Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison from Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Tiq Milan keeps an important secret from his mother. Amelia Zirin-Brown is caught between her hippie upbringing and being one of the cool girls. Doug Wright becomes penpals with kindred spirit, John Boy from The Waltons. Podcast # 928

On this episode, in celebration of the Tour de France, we’re taking a ride with three stories all centered around biking. This episode is hosted by Emily Couch. Storytellers: Noa Gilbert organizes a protest to save a protected bike lane. Rebecca Sacks got into a bike accident and discovers something about her community. On his way to a meeting at Warner Bros., Gbenga Akinnagbe ends up stranded on the side of a mountain. Podcast # 927

In this hour, an ode to brothers. Family ties and secrets, fraternal bonds and sibling pranks. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Brian Kennedy needs to finally come out to his brother. Nicole Schnitzler tries to establish normalcy for her neurodivergent brother during quarantine. Bill Bernat's brother helps him get a fresh start. Katherine Wu hopes her older brother will attend her wedding. Lynn Adams gets revenge on her brother. Om Choudhury comforts his brother in the wake of their father's death. Podcast # 731

A few days ago, we aired an episode of the Moth Radio Hour called “Human + Nature” - where we shared some stories about humans, nature, and human nature. But, for this podcast, we’re taking a different look at that topic, as we explore the dark side of two of life’s most natural joys – sex and laughter. This episode is hosted by Kate Tellers. Storytellers: Becky Feldman hires an escort to help her rediscover her body. Adrianne McGillis’ father's favorite joke lands him in the hospital.

In this hour, we explore what happens when humans interact with nature—from angry swans to empathetic trees to listening to their own instincts. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Kate Tellers. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Seth Cohen’s break out makes him consider a major life break up. Elizabeth Hansen soothes her pain in an unlikely place. Chris Bell finds out what he might do if a bear attacked. Majdy Fares's AirBnB rating suffers thanks to a pair of cantankerous swans. Rebecca Falzano finds surprising solace with trees. Podcast # 926

This summer marks the 50th anniversary of the release of Jaws in theaters. And you know what that means, stories about TEETH. Because sharks are scary, but dental work is the real horror. This episode is hosted by Suzanne Rust. Storytellers: Alexis Traussi has jaw surgery Shania Russell delays some dental work Anagha Mahajan has a biking accident and ends up in the ER Podcast # 926

A special Moth Radio Hour in celebration of PRIDE! Stories of first kisses, drag queens, and coming out -- to others and to oneself. This episode is hosted by Moth storyteller Alistair Bane. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Meg Ferrill comes out to her complicated father. A raucous party ends up being illuminating for Bisi Alimi. Bethany Cintron yearns to go to the Pride Parade. Jake Haller finds himself a complicated relationship with labels. Walter Cole describes his storied six decade career as a drag queen. Podcast # 719

On this episode, we celebrate Pride Month, with three stories all about the joys of LGBTQ+ family - from long-term partnerships, to raising children, to friendships that become a found family. This episode is hosted by Marc Sollinger. Storytellers: Gary Bremen and his partner go on vacation and lose something important . Carly Spotts-Falzone recounts the joys of growing up with two dads. Chris Conde finds comfort and strength in a friend, and in drag. Podcast # 924

A special Father's Day edition of The Moth Radio Hour: A man who faints at the sight of blood prepares to become a father, a Russian immigrant takes a trip home and tries to fulfill a promise to his mother, a child goes to great lengths to hide brussels sprouts from her stepfather, and a family fights to stay in the country they call home. Hosted by The Moth Radio Hour Producer, Jay Allison. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Andrew Postman tries to train himself not to pass out as he prepares for the births of his children. Boris Timanovsky returns to Russia and places flowers at what he hopes is his grandfather's grave. Annalise Raziq's new stepfather brings order and some new rules. Dori Samadzai Bonner and her family escape Afghanistan and seek asylum in the United States.

This week, we reair a special episode that originally ran to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising. It includes a broad range of voices and perspectives, with two Moth stories from LGBTQ storytellers, Richard Cardillo and Sonia Audi, and two interviews, one with Stonewall Veteran Martin Boyce, and one with poet and activist Kay Ulanday Barrett. Hosted by: Dame Wilburn Storytellers: Richard Cardillo, Sonia Audi Interviewees: Martin Boyce, Kay Ulanday Barrett

In this hour, stories from Moth open mic StorySLAMs with the theme "Green." Gardens, edamame, and nervous novices. To quote Kermit the Frog, "it's not easy being green." This episode is hosted by Moth director Chloe Salmon. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Isthier Chaudhury puts his Youtube swimming lessons to the test. Tannia Schrieber finds that her garden grows more than just plants during the pandemic. Elizabeth Fritzler becomes the personal chef to a picky eater. When Mark Fiedeldey's husband moves out, he leaves his journal behind. Rosalind Croad is overjoyed to have her first boyfriend....until kissing enters the equation. Having received many rejection letters, Akshay Gajria learns how to write them. Podcast # 923

On this episode... two stories, one about a Home Economics class, the other about a sibling rivalry. This episode is hosted by Suzanne Rust. Storytellers: Suzanne Ketchum Adams learns to stand up for herself in a Home Ec class. Jeff Rose’s mother tells him not to ruin his nice suit for Church. Podcast # 922

This episode of The Moth Radio Hour explores the many mysteries of life: A tree that bears a magical harvest, a hunt for apartment justice, a journalist undercover in North Korea, and more. This episode is hosted by Moth Director Chloe Salmon. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: A shady apartment deal has Michele Castellano channeling her inner Nancy Drew. The child of a working mom, Alexandra Rosas struggles with saying goodbye. As a kid, Annie Share wonders about the mysterious, magical tree in her backyard. One very special penny has the potential to change the lives of Adam Bottner and his son. Suki Kim is a journalist who risks her life posing as a teacher in an elite North Korean school. Podcast # 729

In this hour, stories of support systems and the people we depend on. In elementary school band, during medical events, and in the midst of a dangerous escape. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Ryan Roe's father proves instrumental at a school concert. Eldon Smith struggles to connect to his girlfriend's kids. Silke Nied's family hatches a plan to escape East Germany. Bryn Durgin becomes her father's caregiver. Podcast # 921

In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’ll be sharing three stories from AAPI storytellers - which take place everywhere from a Korean Spa to a crisis hotline. This episode was hosted by Chloe Salmon. Storytellers: Helen Langley Wyss finds confidence at a jimjilbang. Hari Sanghvi resents the sound of his own voice, until he’s able to help someone in crisis. Wendy Suzuki studies memory as a doctor, and finds a new way of looking at her work when she’s confronted with her own father's memory loss. Podcast # 920

Join our storytellers on this week's Moth Radio Hour as they experience the unexpected twists and turns of life. From a Russian bathhouse in New York City to a lonely road in West Virginia, these stories go places you won't see coming. This episode is hosted by regular Moth host Jon Goode. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: An argument in a Russian bathhouse leads Sofija Stefanovic to an unlikely connection in a new city. A painful diagnosis brings John Mack Freeman’s family together for one last birthday party. Jon Goode's car breaks down, he gets picked up by a stranger, and then it gets even stranger. While working as an instructor for a wealthy teen, Aydrea Walden realizes that everyone has their struggles. A letter from the blood bank turns Ijeoma Oluo’s life upside down. Podcast # 727

On this episode… more mothers.. A few days ago, we aired an episode of the Moth Radio Hour called “Mama Bears” - where we shared some stories about the archetype of protective mothers. But, for Mother’s Day, we’re expanding that category… with stories about how being a mom, and having a mom, can be a lot. This episode is hosted by Jenifer Hixson. Storytellers: Melanie Kostrzewa learns some lessons about motherhood from her neighborhood ice cream man. Marie Dennehy deals with a mother undergoing mental health issues. Marya Morris is in over her head as a new stay-at-home stepmom. Podcast # 918

In this hour, stories of mothers as protectors, rescuers, and, sometimes, meddlers. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Donald Harrison plays piano at a gay bar. Luann Sims throws a broccoli-themed party. Muneesh Jain travels to every baseball stadium in the country. Xochitl Gonzalez is a wedding planner tempted to take sides. Podcast # 919

In this hour, stories about places frozen in time, memories preserved, and seemingly interminable moments. A small town, public transportation, an archeological site, and a car with character. This episode is hosted by Moth Producer and Director Jodi Powell. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Scott Gravatt and his family become attached to their new car, Buster. Nimisha Ladva meets a fellow professor who makes her question her beliefs.Norman Lear learns the impact of a seemingly small decision years later.Dylon Killian witnesses a spirited debate on public transit. Archeologist Hannah Morris races to complete her work before the effects of climate change destroy the site. This story was produced in collaboration with the World Science Festival.Podcast # 747

This week, a special edition of The Moth Radio Hour featuring a live show from New York City. Stories of the senses: touch, smell, sound, and sight. This episode is hosted by Julian Goldhagen, with additional hosting by Moth Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Peter Aguero's life takes an unexpected turn in a pottery class.Tighisti Amahazion finds creature comfort during an escape with her family. Julian Goldhagen gets trapped in a walk-in closet.Bryan Kett gets a chance to see in color for the first time.Podcast # 917

This week's stories are going to take us from a sexy Italian tryst, to a life-changing realization. From learning to love, to learning to accept help from others. This episode was hosted by Michelle Jalowski.Storytellers:Julie Baker learns to come to terms with her blind cane.Hanna Bowens goes to Italy to meet someone she met on a dating app.Podcast # 916

Imagine if you could ask someone anything you wanted about their finances. On What We Spend, people from across the country and across the financial spectrum are opening their wallets—and their lives—to tell you everything: what they make, what they want, and—for one week—what they spend.

This week The Moth Radio Hour is proud to present to you stories full of pleasant surprises. From unexpected friends, to the Civil Rights Movement, and a love story over 60 years in the making. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Curatorial Producer, Suzanne Rust. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Rudy Rush, a comedian from Harlem, cannot buck his love for the rodeo.White southerner Bob Zellner reflects on being an ally during the Civil Rights Movement.After 62 years apart, Cynthia Riggs reconnects with a man from her past.Podcast # 723

In honor of National Parks Week, we've got three stories, all about our National Parks, and why they matter. This episode was hosted by Tim Lopez.Storytellers:Kathy Nicarry finds strength in Yellowstone National Park.Tim Lopez is feeling a bit lost, and then becomes a Park Ranger in California.95 year old park ranger Betty Reid Soskin squares off with an intruder.Podcast # 914

Join The Moth Radio Hour for a night out -- with this week’s stories of late night adventures or, should we say, misadventures. This episode is hosted by The Moth's Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers:Gary Yiminez proves just how far he's willing to go for love.Otis Gray has a clever idea for how to deal with a rude customer.Molly Kendall's surprise for her boyfriend gets out of hand when he takes her out to dinner.Devin Elise Wilson rings in the New Year with a charming stranger.Flash Rosenberg has a life threatening fall, during a night out in New York City.Podcast # 725

In this hour, a trip through the phases of life—childhood to awkward adolescence, first jobs to careers, and big leaps in adulthood. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Curatorial Producer, Suzanne Rust. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Anne McNamee Keels is "not the cool girl" at school.Matthew Dicks finds a friend at McDonalds.Kate Greathead finds out that her dream at age 7 is a nightmare at age 14.Linda Grosser discovers more about herself on a sailboat.Ron Hart loses passion for his dream job. Karen Lascher has a complicated relationship with Mother's Day. Podcast # 914

Hungry? This week, mouth-watering stories of food and the connections it provides. A feast of gravlax, fudge, bolognese, and more. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Curatorial Producer, Suzanne Rust. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Arlene Stewart finds where she belongs as a chef. Di Zhao goes to war over quail eggs. Josephine Ferraro runs a con for spumoni. Michael Imber tries to become his grandmother’s “angel boy.”James Gallicio's nonna takes her bolognese sauce recipe to her grave. Podcast # 913

March Madness has us thinking about threes, dunks, and triple-doubles… but March is also Women’s History Month, so we’re thinking about basketball in a slightly different way. So we've got two stories all about women's basketball. This episode was hosted by Sarah Jane Johnson.Storytellers:Toya Chester tries to score 1000 points in her college basketball career.Dame Wilburn learns how to play basketball.Podcast # 912

A special Moth Radio Hour with stories originating from our annual "Love Hurts" StorySLAM. Love lost, love found, unwanted spotlights and the family we choose. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Andrew Brown comes face to face with his academic nemesis.Joshua Arnold dreads being singled out during altar call.Daisy Rosario meets her brother for the first time at their father's funeral.Gary Sizer shares a love of Star Trek with his step father..Antoinette Thorne, a trans woman, is recognized by her father in a small town.Podcast # 721