

Beautiful Stories From Anonymous People
Chris Gethard
1 phone call. 1 hour. No names. No holds barred. Thats the premise behind Beautiful Stories from Anonymous People, hosted by comedian Chris Gethard (the Chris Gethard Show, Broad City, This American Life, and one of Time Outs 10 best comedians of 2015). Every week, Chris opens the phone line to one anonymous caller, and he cant hang up first, no matter what. From shocking confessions and family secrets to philosophical discussions and shameless self-promotion, anything can and will happen! Theme song by Shellshag.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 5, 2024 • 1h 42min
Election Day Special 2024
In a special episode dedicated to Election Day, listeners share their personal voting stories, offering a glimpse into their motivations and concerns. Topics range from discussions on healthcare and education to the importance of community values in shaping political beliefs. The impact of inspiring female figures and the complexities of voting in red states are also explored. With stories that encourage unity and understanding, the conversation highlights the pivotal role of individual voices in democracy amid a charged political landscape.

Oct 31, 2024 • 1h 20min
Trump Voter 2024
In this discussion, a 2024 Trump voter from a non-profit domestic violence crisis center shares their personal reasons for supporting Trump, emphasizing the necessity of open dialogue in politics. They explore topics like the challenges of abortion rights and personal beliefs, reflecting on political tensions while advocating for compassionate discourse. The conversation addresses the complexities of political affiliations and experiences in a polarized climate, underscoring the importance of understanding differing viewpoints as the 2024 election approaches.

Oct 29, 2024 • 1h 12min
Steamed Placentas
This episode features an anonymous caller who is a birth doula and placenta encapsulator. She shares her quirky journey from making pickles to managing placentas, blending humor with heartfelt insights. The discussion dives into the fascinating process of placenta encapsulation, from steaming to dehydrating, and its cultural significance. Listeners are treated to personal anecdotes about the joys and challenges of childbirth, as well as the nutritional benefits of placenta consumption. It’s an enlightening exploration of an unconventional career that leaves everyone smiling.

8 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 1h 33min
A Little Communism is Fine
This week’s guest is a coffee roaster and worker-owner cooperative member, passionate about community initiatives and elder care. He shares insights into the challenges seniors face in financial planning and long-term care, advocating for compassionate support systems. The conversation highlights the importance of cooperative business models and community responsibility in fostering positive change. With a charming demeanor, he reflects on balancing work and life, emphasizing the significance of family connections and personal growth amidst societal challenges.

Oct 15, 2024 • 1h 20min
Halloween House
It’s spooky season here at Beautiful/Anonymous, and we’re kicking things off with a caller whose house became the Halloween House in his neighborhood. He and Gethard bond over their shared love of all things Halloween, but most especially going way too big on lawn decorations. Then, the call takes a turn for the genuinely scary as the two discuss some of the most unsettling things they’ve encountered in real life. Sign up for Beautiful/Anonymous+ to get ad free episodes and access to exclusive content including 5 Random Questions with this week’s caller. Leave us a voicemail at (973) 306-4676 Get $80 off your first month with promo code SPACE80 at Talkspace.com/BEAUTIFUL Go to joindeleteme.com/BEAUTIFUL and use promo code BEAUTIFUL for 20% off.

Oct 8, 2024 • 1h 18min
Dreaming of Kamloops
A heavy-duty mechanic shares her journey through a life-altering injury while navigating a male-dominated industry. Growing up on a construction crew, she reflects on her dreams of city life. Humorous anecdotes about building playgrounds and childhood aspirations add depth, alongside discussions on managing stress through self-expression. The importance of balancing love and responsibilities is highlighted, revealing personal struggles and societal expectations. Finally, a charming exploration of life with wildlife ties it all together.

Oct 1, 2024 • 1h 42min
A City of Extremes
An unknown plant pathologist shares her unique experiences, including a recent escapade saving her backyard ducks from a bald eagle. She dives into the quirks of life in Oregon, tackling topics like strip clubs and the raccoon debate. As the conversation turns serious, she opens up about her battle with alcoholism, discussing the importance of support and the road to recovery. Her journey highlights resilience and the role of community in overcoming life's challenges.

Sep 24, 2024 • 1h 16min
Jersey Anonymous
This week, a brand-new social worker shares her transition into this fulfilling career while passionately defending New Jersey's reputation. She and Gethard engage in a lively debate about regional rivalries, exploring the charm of their home state against stereotypes. They reminisce about childhood memories and hidden gems in New Jersey, emphasizing community connections. The conversation shifts to the value of social work, reflecting on personal journeys and the challenges faced, all while enjoying lighthearted banter about the best burgers in Queens.

Sep 17, 2024 • 1h 18min
A Series of Charming Distractions
An outspoken dietitian known for her strong opinions on fast food joins Gethard for a lively chat. They dive into the allure of 'perfectly engineered foods' and share memorable anecdotes from comedy shows. The conversation meanders through the joys of lighthearted distractions, the significance of emotional ties in elopement decisions, and the dietitian’s complex relationship with food. Personal stories blend with expert insights, making for a captivating dialogue that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Sep 10, 2024 • 1h 32min
Grandma's Turn
This week, the squishy squid's grandmother shares her poignant journey through generational trauma and the transformative joys of being a first-time grandparent. She opens up about the challenges of breaking the cycle of abuse while illuminating the beauty found in family relationships. Listeners are treated to heartfelt reflections on parenting dynamics, resilience, and the emotional complexities of family life, all wrapped in a narrative filled with warmth and hope.