The Moth Holiday Special 2014: Monkeys, Megachurches, and First Elves: The Moth Radio Hour
Dec 23, 2025
Simon Doonan, a fashion commentator and former creative ambassador for Barneys New York, shares his unexpected journey as the 'first elf' decorating the White House, dealing with controversy over ornaments. Mark Redmond, who leads Spectrum Youth and Family Services, recounts a touching story of a young girl's generous donation that changed his perspective on a skeptical church. Taylor Negron, an actor and comedian, paints a vivid image of a California Gothic childhood, featuring a mischievous circus monkey and a legendary Christmas filled with joy and chaos.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
White House Decorations Turn Controversial
- Simon Doonan was invited to decorate the White House and found crates of hideous plastic silver balls in storage.
- Community centers decoupaged them into personal monuments, sparking both praise and a conservative backlash accusing him of a "communist agenda."
Small Details Drive Big Backlash
- Public projects can be derailed by small, viral images taken out of context.
- No matter how tasteful the overall work, a few provocative details can trigger disproportionate outrage and threats.
Judgment Changed By A Child's Gift
- Mark Redmond expected to reject a flashy "Hollywood" church but agreed to accept donated supplies for Spectrum.
- A nine-year-old gave a duffel with a Bible and a photo of her brother who'd died of a heroin overdose, which changed his perspective.