RISK!

Join Dan Savage, a syndicated advice columnist and host of the Savage Love podcast, as he shares a poignant story from 2014 titled 'The Stranger'. Comedian Marga Gomez brings humor to her tales of love, including a surprising relationship with a much younger woman. Hip-hop artist So Say The Elemental Wizard opens up about his experiences as a gay rapper in New York City, showcasing the intersection of identity and artistry. Each guest brings unique perspectives on love, intimacy, and the vibrant queer experience.

Larry Dorsey Jr., a talented entertainer and former member of Freestyle Love Supreme, joins RISK! regular Laura House, who shares her poignant story about her fiancé's heart condition. They delve into the emotional whirlwind of navigating healthcare during a crisis and the rollercoaster of anxiety and hope that comes with waiting for critical news. Listeners are taken on a journey through the importance of human connection and resilience during life-threatening situations, all sprinkled with heartfelt humor and reflections.

Melanie Hamlett, a storyteller and TikTok personality, reunites with therapist and TikTok influencer Ms. Aishia to reflect on their experiences with trauma and empowerment through the lens of women's wisdom. They dive deep into Melanie's 'Unbreakable,' discussing themes of abuse and personal growth. The conversation also addresses the complexities of relationships in the age of social media, the impact of past trauma on love, and the healing power of storytelling as a means to foster community and resilience.

Susan Lieu, a talented storyteller, writer, and performer, revisits her powerful narrative about her mother's challenging journey from Vietnam to America. She opens up about her emotional struggle following her mother's tragic death due to plastic surgery complications, exploring themes of grief, justice, and the pursuit of forgiveness. Lieu also reflects on her growth as a storyteller and the impact of personal narratives on social change, inviting listeners to connect through their own experiences.

Frank Traynor, a gifted storyteller with a knack for humor, recounts his memorable 'Achilles Cake' tale, exploring the blend of joy and vulnerability in personal narratives. Jonathan Bradley Welch shares his comedic yet poignant experience with tacos, showcasing the lighter side of life's mishaps. Together, they dive into themes of friendship, personal growth, and the power of storytelling to create connections. Their anecdotes reflect on nostalgia, the quirks of growing up, and finding humor amidst chaos.

Shen Wei, a celebrated artist whose work graces prestigious institutions, shares a powerful story titled 'But Now I See' about transforming his challenging childhood in a Shanghai slum into artistic inspiration. Ed Gavagan, a captivating storyteller, recounts 'Whatever Doesn't Kill Me', detailing his harrowing experience following a violent incident and the resilience it sparked in him. Together, they explore themes of identity, trauma, and the profound impact of art and storytelling in their journeys of healing and self-discovery.

Alex Plotkin, a storyteller and improviser, shares a heartfelt tale about her cat's battle with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), revealing the emotional struggles of pet ownership amidst medical challenges. Yossi Rosenberg, known as New York's Most Desperate Single Man, discusses his journey into orgasmic meditation, exploring unconventional intimacy practices. Together, they navigate the complexities of love, hope, and the trials of life, highlighting the power of vulnerability in personal storytelling.

Join David Crabb, a talented writer and performer, as he recounts his childhood horror movie obsession and journey to self-acceptance. Mara Wilson, beloved for her childhood acting, shares insights on growing up and navigating family dynamics. Blogger Tommy O’Malley reflects on his awkward experiences with love and relationships. Meanwhile, actor Michael Stahl-David nostalgically reminisces about his middle school crushes. Together, they explore themes of innocence, identity, and the hilariously chaotic journey of growing up.

Adam Selbst, a clever and funny storyteller, takes listeners on a wild ride through his own experiences of being mugged multiple times. He humorously explores the absurdity of these situations, sharing outrageous self-defense strategies that blend wit with real-life encounters. As he reflects on split-second decisions and personal character, Adam invites us to consider how crises reveal our true selves. The conversation captures both laugh-out-loud moments and the unexpected stakes of storytelling in the face of fear.

Join Jason Burke, a Broadway storyteller, as he shares a captivating tale from behind the curtain. Robin Beatty reflects on a cherished childhood memory of a theater trip with her uncle, emphasizing the magic of live performance. Comedian Kelli Dunham dives into a humorous and awkward encounter with a man claiming to be her biological father, sparking laughter and thoughts on identity. Together, they explore the emotional impact of storytelling and the complexities of familial relationships in a delightful and entertaining exchange.