Beyond the Surf: A Lifeguard's Stand

Summer is a time when change seems more possible than ever. But is that really how it happens? Can people actually reinvent themselves in the warmer months? This week, we present stories — and some comedy — about people and their summer selves.

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• Prologue: Host Ira Glass reflects on his feelings about going to the beach. (3 minutes)
• Act One: Producer Dana Chivvis explores the case of a 66-year-old working lifeguard who is suing New York State for age discrimination after refusing to wear a Speedo on the job. (16 minutes)
• Act Two: A troupe of comedians tells personal stories about summer experiences and improvises scenes based on them. (23 minutes)
• Act Three: Producer Neil Drumming tells the story of his dad and his family’s timeshare in Orlando, Florida. (14 minutes)

Transcripts are available at thisamericanlife.org

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