The Moth

The Moth

About

On Tuesday's and Friday’s The Moth’s podcast feed presents episodes of the Peabody-Award Winning Moth Radio Hour and original episodes of The Moth Podcast.



Since its launch in 1997, The Moth has presented thousands of true stories, told live and without notes, to standing-room-only crowds worldwide. Moth storytellers stand alone, under a spotlight, with only a microphone and a roomful of strangers. The storyteller and the audience embark on a high-wire act of shared experience which is both terrifying and exhilarating. Since 2008, The Moth podcast has featured many of our favorite stories told live on Moth stages around the country. For information on all of our programs and live events, visit themoth.org.

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420 episodes

The Moth Podcast: Take Me Out To The Ballgame

The crack of the bat! The smell of hot dogs! The towering home runs! In celebration of Opening Day, we've got two stories about America's Past-time. Host: Larry Rosen Storytellers: Joseph Gallo learns about his father, and about baseball. Muneesh Jain travels to every baseball stadium in the country. The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

34m
Mar 29
The Moth Radio Hour: Heroes, Icons and Superstars

In this hour, stories of meeting one's idols. A signature turns into a mentorship, a chance to write a song for a revered musician, and heroes within the home. This hour is hosted by Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media, the producer of this show. Storytellers: Valerie Walker has a chance encounter with a life long idol. Songwriter Beth Nielsen Chapman makes music with a country music icon. Danny Artese gets not only a signature but a mentor when he attends a book signing. Elyse McInerney learns her hero may be a lot closer to her than she realized. Bassist Christian McBride gets a chance to play with a Jazz legend.

53m
Mar 26
The Moth Radio Hour: A Point of Beauty

In this hour, stories of finding hope, grace, and light during unexpected times and in unexpected places. A bookstore, a high school tournament, and death row. 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: Maniza Naqvi travels across the world to help save a bookstore. Michael Watson yearns to participate in the sports culture in his high school. After her wrongful conviction, Sunny Jacobs tries to make a life for herself on death row. Jitesh Jaggi tries to cure his homesickness with a family recipe.

53m
Mar 19
The Moth Podcast: Opening the Page

On this episode, a story from our new book, A Point of Beauty. Host: Tiq Milan Storyteller: Shaun Leonardo pursues his dream of becoming a luchador. The Moth’s new book, A Point of Beauty: True Stories of Holding On and Letting Go releases March 19th. Order it here, or wherever you get your books: https://themoth.org/a-point-of-beauty

21m
Mar 15
The Moth Radio Hour: Truth and Power - Global Stories of Women

In this hour, stories of female strength and empowerment. Independence at any age, refusing to participate in sexist societal conventions, and the complicated layers of motherhood. This hour is hosted by The Moth's Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: 95 year old park ranger Betty Reid Soskin squares off with an intruder. Purity Kagwiria chooses a name for herself. Timothy Bell discovers that there are more layers to his mother than meets the eye. Musih Tedji Xaviere attempts to get her first novel published. Nya Abernathy discovers who gets lied to the most: pregnant women!

53m
Mar 12
The Moth Radio Hour: Sitting with Spirit

When the going gets tough, the tough get going! In this hour, stories of moving through discomfort—grief, revisiting painful history, stepping outside our safe spaces—and how it shapes us. 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: Stephanie Wittels Wach tries to understand her brother's struggle. Wes Hazard takes us behind the scenes of Jeopardy! Introvert Sufian Zhemokov has strict rules about talking to strangers. Brigette Jones is determined to become a tour guide at Belle Meade Plantation.

53m
Mar 05
The Moth Podcast: Melbourne and Cal Wilson

On this episode, two stories from Melbourne, and we’ll reflect on the legacy of comedian and SLAM host Cal Wilson. Host: Chloe Salmon Storytellers: Elizabeth Gray’s son has an interesting first day of school. Cal Wilson is inspired by her five year old son to take swimming lessons. Here’s Cal Wilson’s article about The Moth: https://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/the-lure-of-the-moth-mesmerising-stories-from-people-just-like-you-20180315-h0xhl3.html If you’d like to share your own story, or would just love to hear some incredible live storytelling, check out a Story Slam near you: https://themoth.org/events The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

21m
Mar 01
The Moth Radio Hour: Stuck!

In this hour, stories of being stuck. Stranded in Las Vegas, a desperate search for a pet sitter, a wreck on the Colorado River, and stage fright on the church pulpit. This hour is hosted by The Moth's Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Alistair Bane reluctantly attends church as his friend's grandmother's "special guest"... Jon Levin is penniless with a con man in Las Vegas. Noriko Rosted must find a pet sitter for her beloved cat before her trip to Italy. Taylor Tower wonders if her dad is the "right" kind of parent.

53m
Feb 27
The Moth Radio Hour: Best Laid Plans

To err is human—and in this hour, we explore humanity in all its imperfections. Lost baggage, Kool Aid mishaps, and not eating enough fruit. This episode is hosted by Jay Allison, producer of The Moth Radio Hour. Storytellers: Maxie Jones gives in to peer pressure and faces the wrath of his mother. Kate Oliver's determination to impress her partner's family backfires and leaves her in distress. James Fitzgerald is hell bent on watching Power Rangers. At the age of 24, Beau Davis prepares himself for his first airplane journey. Diana Thompson finds herself in a Scottish dancing group, at her mother’s insistence.

53m
Feb 20
The Moth Podcast: Hair Ties

On this episode, we share two stories all about how hair can connect us. As a note, Imogen Wall’s story talks about someone experiencing the suicide of a loved one, if that subject is difficult for you, you might want to skip that story. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can call 988 in the US for free and confidential support. Host: Marc Sollinger Storytellers: Heather Rae looks to a wayward band of strangers to help get her keys out of the car that is locked and running. Imogen Wall finds connection and comfort in a hair salon. If you’d like to share your own story, or would just love to hear some incredible live storytelling, check out a Story Slam near you: https://themoth.org/events The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

18m
Feb 16
The Moth Radio Hour: Reconciling the Past

In this hour, stories of looking backward to forge ahead. Seeking justice for heinous crimes decades old, memories flooding back during a chance encounter, and reconciling darkness during a joyous time. This hour is hosted by The Moth's former Artistic Director, Catherine Burns. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Journalist Jerry Mitchell takes on notorious members of the Ku Klux Klan. Reyna Grande finds kinship with a man seeking asylum in the US. In her journey to start a family, Sarah Jane Johnson also finds herself facing her past.

53m
Feb 13
The Moth Radio Hour: Hidden Beauty

In this hour, stories of beauty—internal, skin-deep, and previously undiscovered. 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: George Dawes Green encounters many characters while working on a crisis hotline. Archy Jamjun wants to be beautiful like his sister. Annette Herfkens survives a plane crash.

53m
Feb 06
The Big Easy: Emilie Bahr and Emily Richmond

On this episode, we share two stories from one of the best places to hear a live story, New Orleans. Host: Sarah Austin Jenness Storytellers: Emilie Bahr deals with some pants issues, with the help of her father. Emily Richmond wrestles with a grade school survey. Whether you’re in New Orleans or not, if YOU’D like to share your own story, or would just love to hear some incredible live storytelling, check out a Story Slam near you: https://themoth.org/events The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

14m
Feb 02
The Moth Radio Hour: Live from Dayton

A special live edition of The Moth, brought to you from the Victoria Theater in Dayton, Ohio. Conscious uncoupling, a livestock auction, new perspectives, and Darth Vader. This hour is hosted by Dame Wilburn with additional hosting by Jay Allison, producer of The Moth Radio Hour. Storytellers: Sara Rabidoux-Kelsey has a unique living arrangement with her ex. Dame Wilburn has a startling encounter with Darth Vader. 16 and pregnant, Jackie Andrews must find a way out of financial hardship. Anthony Brinkley finds his perspective changed after being the victim of a racially-motivated attack.

53m
Jan 30
The Moth Radio Hour: Unexpected Community

In this hour, stories of finding your people—on the basketball court, behind the bar, or on the street. 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: At the age of 50, Harwood Taylor returns to basketball with a new team. Julia Cadieux's college bartending job isn't what she expected. Sandra Kwawu finds comfort in a celebration with her friends and family. When Jose Faus is commissioned to paint a mural, he finds inspiration all around him.

53m
Jan 23
Slamming into the New Year: Liza Cooper and Jim Winship

On this episode, we share two stories, one meta, and one about a mountain music festival. Host: Gabriel Szajnert Storytellers: Liza Cooper tells a story… about telling a moth story. Jim Winship finds healing at a mountain-music festival. If YOU’D like to share your own story, or would just love to hear some incredible live storytelling, check out a Story Slam near you: https://themoth.org/events The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

19m
Jan 19
The Moth Radio Hour: Out of Step, Out of Place

In this episode, stories of outsiders, being at odds, and discomfort. A man feels more at home with machines than people, a young girl encounters a teacher who doesn't understand her, and a man becomes an unwilling participant on his father's hunting trip. This hour is hosted by The Moth's Senior Director Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: John Elder Robison is an adult when he is diagnosed with Asperger's. Renee Watson and her classmates band together to take on their teacher. Jon Bennett, a vegetarian, goes on a hunting trip with his father.

53m
Jan 16
The Moth Radio Hour: Live from London

This week, a special episode of The Moth, live from the Union Chapel in London. Stories of holding on and letting go. Adventures in low-stakes crime, military training, and family trees. This episode is hosted by Jon Goode, with additional hosting by Jay Allison, producer of this show. Storytellers: Altar boy Kevin McDonnell idolizes the Six Million Dollar Man. Jon Goode must take a swim test to become a marine. Runa takes a journey into her family history. Nick Ullett describes his (mis)adventures on the path towards adoption.

53m
Jan 09
Moth Mainstage Tour Announcement!

If you enjoy the stories you hear on The Moth Podcast then come experience the magic of true stories told live in-person at a Moth Mainstage show near you! The Moth Mainstage features five storytellers and a notable host who all share true tales–centered on a common theme—live and without notes! Tickets are on sale now at themoth.org/mainstage "" — Forbes “” — GQ Australia Moth Mainstage Winter/Spring Tour Schedule: __ __

3m
Jan 06
Black Medicine: Ray Christian

On this episode, we’re turning the episode over to Ray Christian, a storyteller, historian, and valued member of the Moth family. We’re playing one of our favorite episodes from his podcast, “What’s Ray Saying,” and we just know you’ll love it. You can find “What’s Ray Saying” wherever you get your podcasts, or click on this link: https://pod.link/1097310592

34m
Jan 05
The Moth Radio Hour: Around the World

In this hour, stories from across the globe. From a secret in Kampala to ire in the air over Beijing, and the fear and hope both inherent in immigration, stories that span six continents and the spaces in between. This hour is hosted by The Moth's Artistic Director, Catherine Burns. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Emma Gordon delves into her boyfriend's past relationship to save him from deportation. Kwong Yue Yang prejudges his seatmate on a flight to China. Anastasia Krasilnikova and her family keep a secret from her abusive father. Robinah Babirye is blackmailed due to her HIV status.

53m
Jan 02
The Moth Radio Hour: One In a Million

In this hour, stories of people who made an impact—through a single phone call, a helping hand, or human touch. 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: Greg Quiroga sees his Uncle Steve in a new light. Meg Lavery experiences a change of perspective after over a decade as a teacher. Beth Yates volunteers at San Francisco City Hall during "gay marriage Lollapalooza.” Brittney Cooper gets an unexpected call from Tyler Perry. Jerry Jennings Army National Guard unit is unexpectedly deployed after 9/11

53m
Dec 26, 2023
The Moth Radio Hour: Over the River and Through the Woods

This week, a special holiday episode from The Moth. Unlikely Christmas wishes, letters from The Grinch, and a husband by Chanukah. This episode is hosted by Angelica Lindsey-Ali. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Ten year old Jessi Berdinka's peculiar Christmas wish is granted. Amy Klein gets help from a matchmaking rabbi. Mary Gaitskill  pens letters as The Grinch for a neighborhood kid. Juno Men and her cousin go to a casino over Thanksgiving.  Niceol Blue is a street kid with nowhere to go for Christmas.

53m
Dec 19, 2023
Secret Santa: Jeannie Colon and James Gordon

On this episode, we’re sharing stories about Santa. Normally, we don’t air stories that reveal that Santa isn’t real, however, we decided to break that tradition for a special episode. So, if any kids might listen, be warned. Host: Suzanne Rust Storytellers: Jeannie Colon James Gordon The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

21m
Dec 15, 2023
The Moth Radio Hour: Parental Guidance

In this hour, stories of learning from one's parents. Difficult life lessons, words of wisdom (not always heeded), and being lead by example. Listen to your father; mother knows best; respect your elders. This hour is hosted by Moth Radio Hour Producer, Jay Allison. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Bridgett Davis's mother provides for her family and teaches her daughter a valuable lesson in the process. Ellie Lee tells the story of her Chinese immigrant father and the empire he built from nothing. Jason Schommer's mother teaches him that bad decisions can be immortalized in photos. Louise Newton-Keogh learns and re-learns the meaning of "I love you" from her mother.

53m
Dec 12, 2023
The Moth Radio Hour: Creatures Great & Small

In this hour, stories of encounters with the animal kingdom. Songbirds, rogue rams, carnivorous threats—and friends. This episode is hosted by Moth storyteller and host Ray Christian. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Georgia Huff goes for a hike...in grizzly bear country. Randy Horick finds meaning in a bird's song. Michele Woods must prove she's a real Scottish local when her ram, Frowick, escapes. After Fran Kras takes in a stray cat, a mystery unfolds. As a child with a severe stutter, Alan Rabinowitz finds solace in speaking to animals.

53m
Dec 05, 2023
Growing Up with Siblings: Saad Najam and Meredith Morrison

In this episode, we’ll be playing an episode all about siblings from the Moth’s very first spinoff podcast, Grown, which has just launched it’s second season! Subscribe to Grown wherever you get your podcasts, or check out its website for more information: www.grownpod.com http://www.grownpod.com Hosted by: Aleeza Kazmi and Fonzo Lacayo The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

34m
Dec 01, 2023
The Moth Radio Hour: Forever and Ever

In this hour, stories of things past shaping the here and now; the smell and taste of home, whirlwind romance, and finding comfort and kinship in the most dire of circumstances. This hour is hosted by Moth Senior Director Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Talaya Moore, a homeless child, takes solace in her most valued possession - her dolls. Nikesh Shukla finds a frozen moment in time after the death of his mother. Self-professed nerd Andrew Solmssen meets his match. Caitlin FitzGerald discovers her new home has a terrible past.

1h 44m
Nov 28, 2023
Pigging Out on Thanksgiving: Adam Linn

On this episode of The Moth podcast, we’re reairing a treasured episode from our archives. We thought it would be especially fun for the day after Thanksgiving. And just a reminder -- if you'd like to listen to our 26 year library of Moth stories, check out our story archive at the moth dot org, just click the stories banner. Hosted by: Dan Kennedy Storyteller: Adam Linn The Moth would like to thank its listeners and supporters. Stories like these are made possible by community giving. If you’re not already a member, please consider becoming one or making a one-time donation today at themoth.org/giveback

17m
Nov 24, 2023
The Moth Radio Hour: What's Up, Doc?

Stories are medicine for the soul, but in this hour, stories of real medicine. Hospital residencies, doctor visits, and difficult diagnoses. This episode is hosted by Suzanne Rust. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media Storytellers: While in prison, Michael Fischer takes advantage of his medical condition. Leanna House find a unique way to cope with her mastectomy. Oscar Saavedra takes a stab at being a phlebotomist. Cancer patient Gwen Carmen tries to learn how to die. After giving birth, Elizabeth Gray is in denial about her mental health.

53m
Nov 21, 2023