This American Life 850: If You Want to Destroy My Sweater, Hold This Thread as I Walk Away
83 snips
Jan 4, 2026 
Lilly Sullivan, a producer on the show, shares a humorous family tale about her parents' first meeting, revealing surprising twists that reshape her understanding of family narratives. Musician Mike Comite reflects on a critical moment at the Bonnaroo festival, where a unique connection with Weezer's frontman changed the course of his career, highlighting the impact of vulnerability in artistic growth. Both guests explore how seemingly small events can dramatically alter lives and perspectives.
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The Teacher's Speech
- Chris Benderev's high school teacher gave an impromptu speech about friendships.
- This speech significantly impacted Chris's outlook on his future relationships.
The Hitchhiker Story
- Lily Sullivan's family has a cherished story about a hitchhiker.
- This story explains how her parents met and formed their family.
Mom's Version
- Lily's mom has a different version of the hitchhiker story.
- This challenges the family's accepted narrative and Lily's perception of her father.