In this episode, stories of who we are and what we present to the world. White lies, falsified documents, playing dress up, and big transformations. This show is hosted by Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media, producer of The Moth Radio Hour. Hosted by: Jay Allison Judit Samper Albero uses her artistic talent to save money. Shaun Gohel accidentally manifests a girlfriend. Dave Moran prepares to argue in front of the Supreme Court. Camille Qurban almost has her cover blown at a child's birthday party. Ishmael Beah describes his transformation from innocent child to cold-hearted soldier. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ishmael Beah, a bestselling author and former child soldier from Sierra Leone, shares his harrowing journey from innocence to survival. He recounts the trauma of being forced into warfare at just 13 and the long path to rehabilitation, aided by a compassionate mentor. Ishmael reflects on the power of music and storytelling in reclaiming his identity and the emotional struggles faced by former child soldiers. His impactful speech at the UN ignited a global conversation about child rights and his advocacy continues to inspire hope for a better future.

Ishmael Beah, a former child soldier and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, shares his incredible journey from war-torn Sierra Leone to becoming a bestselling author. He details the terrifying reality of being a child in a civil war, where survival often means joining a faction or facing death. Beah discusses how music, especially rap, provided him an escape from the horrors around him. He also reflects on the deep scars left by trauma and the struggles of reintegrating into society, emphasizing the importance of awareness about the legacy of child soldiers.