The Moth

Donald Harrison shares a delightful tale of his piano performances at a gay bar, revealing the unique bonds between music and community. Luann Sims brings laughter with her son's unforgettable broccoli-themed birthday bash. Muneesh Jain recounts his adventures visiting all 30 MLB stadiums, showcasing how baseball transformed his life. Xochitl Gonzalez offers insights from her days as a wedding planner, navigating the whimsical and sometimes chaotic world of weddings. Each story illuminates the incredible, often hilarious side of maternal love and life's unexpected moments.

Scott Gravatt, a high school cross-country coach from Portland, shares a heartwarming story about his family's bond with a vintage car named Buster. Nimisha Ladva explores her beliefs through an encounter with a fellow professor. Iconic television writer Norman Lear reflects on the lasting significance of a childhood sweater. Dylon Killian dives into public transit debates, while archaeologist Hannah Morris races against climate change to preserve vital historical sites, blending urgency and artistry in their narratives.

Peter Aguero, a seasoned host and storyteller from Queens, shares his transformative experience in a pottery class that reignites his creativity. Tighisti Amahazion, a writer and neuro-nerd, evokes the sensory memories of her childhood in war-torn Eritrea. Bryan Kett, a former science teacher, describes his emotional journey of seeing color for the first time, highlighting the deep connection between senses, emotions, and storytelling. Together, they explore how memory and the senses shape our narratives and experiences.

Featuring Julie Baker, a writer and mom learning to embrace help with her blindness, and Hanna Bowens, a storyteller delving into a sultry Italian romance. Julie humorously navigates her new reality, sharing heartfelt insights on acceptance and empowerment. Meanwhile, Hanna recounts her adventurous journey sparked by a dating app, mixing vulnerability with romance during her spontaneous trip to Italy. Their captivating stories intertwine themes of connection, self-acceptance, and the unexpected joys found in everyday life.

Dive into the intimate world of personal finances as individuals share their spending habits and financial struggles. Hear gripping stories about the emotional toll of student debt and the quest for mental wellness. Experience candid discussions about budgeting, with relatable humor about everyday expenses. Learn about the struggle to balance self-care with rising costs, particularly around essentials like groceries and healthcare. This exploration reveals how money impacts life decisions and personal dreams.

Rudy Rush, a comedian and former host of Showtime at the Apollo, shares a humorous take on unexpected adventures and his love for rodeo culture. Bob Zellner, a civil rights activist and author, recounts his transformative journey from a Klan family to an ally during the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting impactful encounters with iconic leaders. Meanwhile, Cynthia Riggs reflects on a heartwarming love story that reconnected her with a long-lost friend after 62 years, exploring themes of nostalgia, community, and the power of personal connections.

Kathy Nicarry, a recently retired volunteer and cooking columnist, shares how she discovered strength in the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. Meanwhile, 95-year-old Betty Reid Soskin, a remarkable park ranger and activist, recounts a dramatic encounter with an intruder, blending history with personal bravery. Their stories highlight the profound impact of national parks, reflecting on empowerment, resilience, and the importance of connection to nature.

Gary Yiminez shares a hilarious and heartfelt tale of his love-fueled adventure in New Jersey. Otis Gray reflects on the importance of respecting restaurant staff while recounting a spontaneous karaoke night. Molly Kendall’s surprise dinner date leads to unexpected hilarity and self-discovery. Devin Elise Wilson shares a charming New Year's Eve encounter, tackling the stigma of herpes with humor and honesty. Flash Rosenberg recounts a life-or-death subway incident, blending vulnerability with creativity in her storytelling.

Join Anne McNamee Keels, an educator and Moth Grand Slam winner, as she hilariously reflects on the struggle of not being the 'cool girl' in school. Matthew Dicks shares a memorable McDonald's encounter that highlights friendship during awkward adolescence. Kate Greathead reveals how a childhood dream can morph into a teenage nightmare. Writer Ron Hart discusses losing passion for his career, while Karen Lascher dives into her complex relationship with Mother's Day—all woven into a rich tapestry of personal growth and resilience.

Arlene Stewart, a personal chef who has catered for celebrities and trained with culinary legends, leads off with her journey of finding belonging through food. Di Zhao shares a humorous hot pot dinner story and a quirky childhood dispute over quail eggs. Josephine Ferraro recounts a delightful childhood con involving spumoni and a heartfelt confession. Michael Imber reminisces about his grandmother’s fudge, emphasizing how recipes carry love and memory across generations. Food takes center stage in these touching narratives of connection.