The Moth
The Moth
On Tuesdays and Fridays The Moth’s podcast feed presents episodes of the Peabody-Award Winning Moth Radio Hour and original episodes of The Moth Podcast. Since its launch in 1997, The Moth has presented thousands of true stories, told live and without notes, to standing-room-only crowds worldwide. Moth storytellers stand alone, under a spotlight, with only a microphone and a roomful of strangers. The storyteller and the audience embark on a high-wire act of shared experience which is both terrifying and exhilarating. Since 2008, The Moth podcast has featured many of our favorite stories told live on Moth stages around the country. For information on all of our programs and live events, visit themoth.org.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 10, 2025 • 27min
Banned Books Week: The Moth Podcast
Mohammed Bin Khulayf, originally from Riyadh, shares his daring journey to acquire banned books in Saudi Arabia, detailing secretive parking lot exchanges and the thrill of dodging censorship. Toby Price, a children's book writer and former educator, recounts the fallout from reading a humorous picture book to his students, leading to an unexpected suspension. Both stories highlight the essential role of banned literature in fostering creativity and courage, emphasizing the importance of freedom in storytelling.
10 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 54min
Still Existing and Bucket Listing: The Moth Radio Hour
Join Jordy Ponce, a psychologist and cancer patient, as he shares how a life-altering diagnosis led him to embrace a 'still existing and bucket listing' philosophy. Software engineer Mike Sela confronts his fear of heights to skydive for his daughter's birthday, while animator Eric Schur highlights the stress of planning a dream trip to Pixar. Nonprofit executive Samantha Williams recounts a thrilling yet terrifying whitewater rafting adventure at Victoria Falls, underscoring the unpredictability of life and friendships.
Oct 3, 2025 • 18min
Embraces and Egg Timers: The Moth Podcast
Gabe Woods-Lamanuzzi, an educator and storyteller known for his personal essays, shares his anxiety-filled encounter meeting his girlfriend's intimidating father. Between awkward hugs and sweaty handshakes, Gabe humorously navigates the world of parental approval. April Gallaty follows, tackling the societal pressures of motherhood with her own egg timer metaphor, reflecting on her choice to remain childfree and the impact of her hysterectomy. Both stories delve into the nerves surrounding family expectations and personal choices.
15 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 55min
The Moth Radio Hour: Relative Silence
In this captivating hour, storyteller Anagha Mahajan shares a nostalgic tale of childhood mischief in Maharashtra, revealing her family’s quirks. Okeoma Erojikwe opens up about the heart-wrenching experience of concealing her grandfather's death from her grandmother due to cultural customs. Angela Derecas Taylor uncovers a violent family secret regarding her grandmother's tragic fate and seeks to honor her memory. Graham Shelby recounts the surreal moment he sees his biological father on television, leading to a complex and emotional journey of connection.
Sep 26, 2025 • 43min
Presenting Heavyweight: The Messenger
Dive into the dramatic tale of Michael, a budding actor whose big break turns into a devastating revelation. Discover the behind-the-scenes magic and mayhem of a film that never made it to theaters, while Jonathan Goldstein unravels the deception at play. Hear from the filmmaker behind the scandal and the family of the real Thomas E. Jones, who exposed the lies. As Quincy's web of fabrications unravels, Michael's journey shifts from acting dreams to crafting children's TV shows. A captivating blend of humor, regret, and redemption awaits!
Sep 23, 2025 • 54min
The Moth Radio Hour: Question Marks
Shahab Asta, a stand-up comedian and U.S. Army veteran, shares heartfelt memories of his mother and the humor that emerged from his loss. Dr. Tonya Matthews, a museum leader and poet, navigates the pressure of a challenging interview, using intentionality to redefine her presence. Ladislao Loera tells a touching story of caregiving, reflecting on love and dignity during vulnerable moments. Rabbi Aaron Potek explores tough questions surrounding faith and relationships, offering insights from his experiences in pastoral care.
14 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 19min
The Moth Podcast: Answers Before Questions
Jason Jaimes, a spirited storyteller, shares a chilling childhood mishap involving a candy mistaken for rat poison, teaching him valuable lessons about curiosity and caution. Meanwhile, Andrea Roske-Metcalfe, a Lutheran pastor, delves into her experience tackling controversy within her new congregation sparked by a protest photo. Her journey highlights the power of communication and trust-building in overcoming misunderstandings. These tales are filled with humor, life lessons, and the unexpected outcomes of seeking answers.
16 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 55min
The Moth Radio Hour: Live from the United Palace
Lin-Manuel Miranda, renowned for his work on Hamilton, shares heartfelt insights from his early days in musical theater, revealing how creativity intertwined with personal experiences. Quiara Alegría Hudes discusses her struggles as a music student and how those shaped her as a writer. Led Black reflects on his marriage and the cultural nuances of masculinity he discovered through it. Together, they weave tales of identity, connection, and the profound impact of music in their lives.
7 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 19min
The Moth Podcast: Performing in LA and Antarctica
Darrell Thorne, a New York City artist known for blending costume design and performance, shares his riveting adventure of performing on an Antarctic cruise. He paints a vivid picture of battling choppy seas while finding inspiration in the icy beauty around him. The podcast also features Brittany Ross, who hilariously reflects on her journey from party princess in L.A. to an in-demand performer while navigating motherhood. Both stories emphasize the power of storytelling and the transformative experiences of their unique performances.
18 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 55min
The Moth Radio Hour: Clean Breaks
Adelle Onyango, a Kenyan media personality, shares her poignant journey of divorce and redefining home in Limuru. Erik Heen, a retired federal investigator, recounts a childhood mishap involving a damaged religious statue that led to unexpected lessons. Courtney Jae Renee, a Queens native focused on social justice, discusses the humorous yet challenging implications of breaking her ankle. Safia Ibrahim, an advocate for health and disability support, reflects on her life with polio and the joys of motherhood, highlighting her determination to lead a fulfilling life.
