The Moth

In this hour, stories of starting fresh. Unexpected opportunities, budding relationships, your next home, and a new take. This episode is hosted by Moth Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Student Naushin Khan has never had a "good relationship" with chemistry.Kristin Lawlor feels like the only single girl in New York.Mariam Bazeed and their family relocate to Egypt during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait.Law professor Dave Moran tries his hand at modelling.Aleyne Larner meets a man 20 years her senior.Podcast # 712 To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this bonus episode, in honor of The Blue Man Group's NYC exit, we're playing a favorite story about, you guessed it, The Blue Man Group. This episode was hosted by Marc Sollinger.Storyteller:After many years in the legendary Blue Man Group, John Grady makes a profound connection with an audience member. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Ann Guo, a career coach and creator of a coaching chatbot, as she shares her hilarious escapades battling postpartum depression through dares. Morgan Givens, the first openly trans recruit of the D.C. Police Academy, reflects on navigating personal identity while honoring family legacy. Ruby Cooper, a dedicated mother and activist, tells a touching tale about providing her son with an offbeat Christmas gift. Each story is a unique take on the quest for happiness and the unexpected joys in life.

Frank Ortega, a dedicated writer and performer, shares his inspiring journey into the film industry, detailing early struggles and pivotal moments on set. Brittney Cooper, a professor and co-founder of the Crunk Feminist Collective, discusses the emotional impact of films on identity, especially regarding representation of black women. They explore the magic of cinema, personal narratives, and the transformative power of storytelling, highlighting the crucial role film plays in shaping our experiences and conversations around identity.

In this inspiring hour, Aditya Dakshinamourtay shares his journey of negotiating the complexities of aviation after moving from South India to NYC. Brenda Williams reflects on familial connections through heirlooms, while Alistair Bane tells of his bond with a horse that highlights resilience. Kathi Kinnear Hill recounts her experiences on the campaign trail, emphasizing the power of community and dialogue. Together, these storytellers celebrate healing and the unexpected joy found in life's little moments.

Whitney McGuire, a sustainability strategist and consultant, reflects on her Buddhist upbringing and the journey to self-acceptance in a predominantly Christian society. Aubrianna Peton, an English and history student, shares her summer experience cleaning up garbage while rethinking her relationship with food waste and its broader social implications. Jacoby Cochran, a renowned storyteller, reminisces about his childhood in a supportive skating community, highlighting the importance of family bonds and cultural legacy.

Jennifer Cohen, a high school English teacher from Vermont, shares her journey from an empty nester to a joyful stage performer in 'Annie.' Justin Hawkins opens up about learning to swim as an adult to confront childhood fears. Susan Mweni discusses her bold choice to remain single and childless while challenging societal norms in Nairobi. James Dommek Jr., an Inupiaq man from Alaska, reflects on annual moose hunting, celebrating his culture and the connection to his heritage and the land.

Tate Russell, an admission counselor and singer, shares a heartfelt tale of young love and awkward high school drama during a theater production. Steve Glickman, a storyteller and retired software engineer, recounts his humorous yet poignant experiences moving back in with his aging parents as they navigate the complexities of familial love and mental health. Their stories beautifully capture the bittersweet nature of love that endures and the challenges that come with it. Perfect for a Valentine's Day reflection!

Hope Iyiewuare, a medical student with a penchant for cycling, shares humorous childhood tales of family chores and lessons learned from a chaotic subway experience. Onnesha Roychoudhuri reflects on a subway encounter that turns unsolicited negativity into collective harmony. Gregory Brady inspires with his journey from addiction to training for a triathlon, emphasizing the strength of community support. Wang Ping recalls starting a banned book club during China's Cultural Revolution, showcasing resilience against censorship and the power of storytelling.

In this engaging hour, Benji Waterhouse, an NHS psychiatrist and comedian, shares his eye-opening experiences during his first week on the job, revealing the harsh realities of psychiatric care. Blind comedian Jamie McDonald spills the tea on his whirlwind rise to fame and the unexpected backlash he faced online. Meanwhile, actress and writer Salima Saxton reflects on her and her husband's quest for the 'perfect life,' highlighting the gap between expectations and reality in relationships. Laughter, truth, and touching moments await!