RISK! Live From Chapel Hill!
Oct 1, 2026
Ray Christian, a professor and storyteller; Andrew Aghapour, a philosophy teacher and comedian; and Lauren Patton, a Southern Gothic writer, share raw stories of growing up and finding their voices. Lauren faces her father’s mistresses on horseback. Andrew stumbles into teaching and discovers confidence. Ray finds belonging among pigeon fanciers before a dangerous fishing trip turns terrifying.
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Growing Up Under Unpredictable Anger
- Lauren Patton grew up fearing her father’s unpredictable anger and emotionally abusive insults.
- She could not identify what caused his hatred, making the constant uncertainty especially frightening.
A Family Home Filled With Betrayal
- Lauren Patton watched her father parade young mistresses through the family home while humiliating her mother.
- At fourteen, she understood the affair’s harm even without directly witnessing sex.
Turning A Horse Ride Into Defiance
- When her father ordered her to take his mistress riding, Lauren Patton felt he was contaminating her safest place.
- She agreed because horseback riding gave her control and a plan to reclaim power.
