The Moth

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.

Toya Chester, an electrician and educator in Boston, shares her ambitious journey to score 1,000 points in college basketball, emphasizing the passion and challenges faced along the way. Dame Wilburn, a storyteller and Moth host, reflects on her childhood experiences playing basketball to stay cool during hot summers in Georgia. Both women explore the significance of women in sports, celebrating milestones and the ongoing fight for respect in women's basketball during March Madness.

Andrew Brown shares a humorous tale of rivalry turned romance, revealing how he married his academic nemesis. Joshua Arnold recounts his cringe-worthy moment during an altar call that left him questioning faith. Daisy Rosario emotionally connects with her brother for the first time at their father's funeral, highlighting the complexities of familial ties. Gary Sizer fondly remembers his stepfather and their shared passion for Star Trek, illustrating how love can bridge generational gaps.

Join Kate Oliver, an educator and psychotherapy student, as she shares a hilarious paintball adventure that dives into the awkwardness of teenage years. Cartoonist Navid Medavian recounts his quirky journey of reopening a small-town movie theater in Idaho, embracing the charm of community life. Meanwhile, award-winning actor Catherine Joy White reflects on rediscovering her childhood passion for swimming amidst personal loss, exploring themes of healing and connection through water. Each story beautifully captures the essence of vulnerability and resilience.

Alicia Kenworthy, a writer and former reality TV talent, shares her surprise discovery of family ties through an unexpected email from Germany. Stacy Staggs discusses the joys and challenges of caregiving while living with her nephew in Kentucky. Marko Ivanov reflects on his childhood in ex-Yugoslavia, emphasizing the resilience of family bonds amid conflict. Together, they explore themes of connection, support, and the emotional complexities of family life, revealing why family truly matters.