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
8 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 54min
Behind the Scenes: The Moth Radio Hour
This week features Gretchen Van Esselstyn, a culinary journalist, who shares a hilarious kitchen crisis involving a VIP. James Gordon, an award-winning author and teacher, reflects on a student's challenging question that reignited his passion for acting. Anastasia Maximenko, a bartender and counselor, recounts an uncomfortable yet heartwarming interaction with a customer. Nahla Summers explores grief through a poignant birthday surprise from her late partner. Finally, Jeremy Gaitan narrates his chilling experience of surviving an avalanche with his family.
7 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 25min
Warm Sweater: The Moth Podcast
Kristy Arnett Moreno, a writer and former professional poker player, shares a gripping story about facing a cancer scare that tests her vulnerability and relationship with her boyfriend, Andrew. Meanwhile, Jonathan Mannheim, a Chicago infectious diseases doctor, lightens the mood with a hilarious tale of chasing thieves while sporting an infamous rainbow argyle sweater. Together, they explore themes of love, resilience, and the warmth of human connection during life's unexpected challenges.
Dec 23, 2025 • 54min
Holiday Special 2014: Monkeys, Megachurches, and First Elves: The Moth Radio Hour
Simon Doonan, a fashion commentator and former creative ambassador for Barneys New York, shares his unexpected journey as the 'first elf' decorating the White House, dealing with controversy over ornaments. Mark Redmond, who leads Spectrum Youth and Family Services, recounts a touching story of a young girl's generous donation that changed his perspective on a skeptical church. Taylor Negron, an actor and comedian, paints a vivid image of a California Gothic childhood, featuring a mischievous circus monkey and a legendary Christmas filled with joy and chaos.
4 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 18min
Snowed In: The Moth Podcast
Cola Rum, a spoken word artist and storyteller, shares his gripping tale of navigating a treacherous snowstorm while delivering vehicles across the country. He recounts tense moments in a whiteout, culminating in a daring decision to follow a truck to safety. Meanwhile, Melissa Earley, a United Methodist pastor, opens up about the challenges of balancing her pastoral role and personal life. She shares an unexpected ski trip that turned urgent after her partner sustains a severe injury, revealing how her congregation responded with warmth and support.
11 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 55min
Underpinning: The Moth Radio Hour
Michael Steinberg, a civil rights attorney, discusses his unexpected case involving a 'cussing canoeist' that gained national attention over an antiquated law. Samuel James shares heartfelt memories of his grandmother, exploring family legacies and the complexities of love and racism. Frimet Goldberger recounts her journey from a strict Hasidic upbringing to liberation, highlighting her first trip to a water park and the fears of losing her identity. Each storyteller dives deep into personal narratives reflecting tradition and the quest for freedom.
Dec 12, 2025 • 18min
Crowd Control: The Moth Podcast
In this lively discussion, Tere Figueras Negrete shares her eye-opening experience during a stalled Miami train, revealing how a frustrating situation can unite strangers into a temporary community. Adam Wade recounts his own tale of transformation, starting with a deli counter meltdown that leads to an unexpected friendship after he apologizes to a fellow shopper. Both guests highlight profound lessons in empathy, connection, and the importance of community during tough times.
Dec 9, 2025 • 54min
Eye Opening Encounters: The Moth Radio Hour
This hour features compelling tales from five remarkable storytellers. Mandy Gardner discovers profound lessons about courage in a Boston graveyard. Caroline Brennan unveils a family secret about a long-lost brother, igniting an emotional reunion. Former teacher Bryan Kett finds renewed purpose through the kindness of his students on a camping trip. Shania Russell shares her transformation from jealousy to joy in her sibling bond during prom dress shopping. Connie Shin confronts grief and legacy while honoring her father on her 32nd birthday.
Dec 5, 2025 • 17min
Finding Soul: The Moth Podcast
Heather McGee, a storyteller and podcaster known for her insights on growing up in a fundamentalist sect, shares her journey of overcoming social anxiety with the help of a bright pink suitcase gifted by her grandmother. This vibrant accessory becomes a symbol of confidence and resilience for her. Ashley McElvey, a performer at live storytelling events, recounts the whirlwind of planning a micro wedding in just six weeks after a health scare prompts urgency. Both stories highlight the power of love, connection, and personal growth.
6 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 55min
If the Shoe Fits: The Moth Radio Hour
Edgar Ruiz Jr., a stand-up comedian and storyteller from Puerto Rico, shares a heartfelt tale of bonding with his father over a humble pair of sneakers. Satori Shakur opens up about her challenges finding purpose after a disheartening job interview. Munjen Ng recounts his journey from a footwear design student to collaborating on basketball shoes, including those for Michael Jordan. These relatable stories explore identity, resilience, and the paths that lead us to where we need to be—all through the lens of shoes.
11 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 29min
Making Everything Possible: The Moth Podcast
Join Callie Toll, a credentialed veterinary technician and storytelling enthusiast, as she recounts her wild encounter with a 1,500-pound Brahma cow that nearly turned her into a pancake while handling cattle. Meanwhile, Tom Rich, a storyteller from Massachusetts, shares his poignant journey of overcoming a stutter, highlighting the vital support from family and the empowering role of community. Together, they explore the themes of resilience and the transformative power of storytelling, guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings.
