Matthew Dicks, an elementary school teacher and storytelling expert, shares a heartfelt tale of friendship found at a McDonald's. Heidi Munson recounts a touching story about her sergeant who reached out with kindness during her deployment in Iraq. Meanwhile, Laurie Bushbaum reflects on her mother’s creative spirit as she decides to give away her mother’s hats to a woman battling cancer. Together, these stories beautifully illustrate themes of kindness, community connection, and the impact of small, compassionate gestures.
19:59
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Unexpected Friendship
Matthew Dicks hated Benji, his McDonald's coworker, due to constant comparisons.
They bonded over the "Gummy Bears" theme song, starting a lifelong friendship.
question_answer ANECDOTE
A Sergeant's Kindness
Heidi Munson's sergeant secretly checked the deceased soldiers' list daily.
He ensured her husband's name wasn't there, easing her fear during deployment.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Hat Lady's Legacy
Lori Bushbaum couldn't sell her deceased mother's handmade hats at a garage sale.
A woman bought them all for her daughter's hat party after losing her hair to cancer.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
In 'Something Missing', Matthew Dicks crafts a humorous and suspenseful tale about Martin Railsback, a meticulous thief who only takes items his 'clients' won't notice. As Martin navigates his unusual profession, he begins to care for those he steals from, leading to unexpected personal transformations. The novel balances humor with deeper themes of morality and human connection.
Unexpectedly, Milo
Matthew Dicks
Milo Slade, a home healthcare aide, struggles with intense compulsions while navigating a trial separation from his wife. His life takes a dramatic turn when he discovers a mysterious video diary, leading him on a cross-country adventure that challenges his perceptions and helps him find himself. Along the way, Milo learns that everyone has their quirks, and embracing them can lead to unexpected connections and love.
Memoirs of an imaginary friend
Matthew Dicks
Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend is a captivating story told from the perspective of Budo, an imaginary friend created by Max, an eight-year-old boy on the autism spectrum. Budo helps Max navigate the complexities of school and social interactions, but when Max is kidnapped, Budo must rely on other imaginary friends to save him. The novel explores themes of friendship, imagination, and the challenges faced by children with autism.
The perfect comeback of Caroline Jacobs
Matthew Dicks
The Perfect Comeback of Caroline Jacobs is a story about Caroline, a quiet and submissive woman who finds her voice after an explosive outburst at a PTO meeting. This event sets her on a path to confront her past, particularly her former best friend who betrayed her in high school. Alongside her teenage daughter, Caroline embarks on a road trip to face her demons and strengthen their relationship. The novel explores themes of bullying, personal growth, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences.
On this episode, stories about kindness, care, and what we owe each other. The episode was hosted by Michelle Jalowski.
Storytellers:
Matthew Dicks finds a friend at McDonalds.
Heidi Munson’s boss goes the extra mile.
Laurie Bushbaum tries to find a way to give away her mom’s hats.
The Moth 
