You think you know true crime podcasts? Wait till you hear Tonya's story.
May 28, 2024
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Fresh Air co-host Tonya Mosley and her nephew Antonio Wiley discuss their documentary podcast 'She Has A Name,' unraveling the disappearance of Tonya's half-sister. They delve into breaking stereotypes in true crime podcasts and how the show brings closure to Anita's family by humanizing the victim. The conversation also touches on embracing vulnerability, family secrets, and even speculates on the potential song of the summer for 2024.
Anita's story brought closure and acknowledgment, dispelling years of uncertainty.
Sharing Anita's past humanized her, emphasizing the importance of recognizing her humanity.
Deep dives
Discovery of Family Secrets
Tonya Mosley's family secrets were uncovered when Antonio, her surprise nephew, reached out to her in 2004. This revelation led to the discovery of Antonio's missing mother, Anita, who disappeared in 1987. The family's journey to unravel Anita's disappearance and identify her remains became the focus of the 'She Has A Name' documentary podcast series.
Significance of Naming Anita
Matching a name to Anita's story brought closure and acknowledgment to the family, dispelling years of uncertainty surrounding her disappearance. Sharing anecdotes from Anita's past highlighted her vibrant personality and humanized her beyond being just a victim. The importance of recognizing Anita's humanity and allowing her to be known resonated deeply with family and friends.
Impact on Mental Health and Healing
The investigative series delved into the impact on mental health within the black community, emphasizing the importance of confronting past traumas and seeking help. By openly discussing their family's history and tragedies, Antonio and Tonya initiated a healing process that encouraged vulnerability and self-reflection. Through storytelling, they found courage, forgiveness, and the power of shared experiences in overcoming challenges.
When a daughter or sister disappears how does a family move on without closure? Host Brittany Luse is joined by Fresh Air co-host Tonya Mosley and and her nephew Antonio Wiley. The two produced She Has A Name, a documentary podcastthat unravels the disappearance and death of Tonya's half-sister, Anita Wiley. Brittany, Tonya, and Antonio get into how Anita went missing, and how their show breaks the stereotypes of true crime podcasting.
Want to be featured on the show? Record your response to Brittany's question at the end of 'Hey Brittany' via voice memo and send it to ibam@npr.org.