The Moth

Dame Wilburn, a skilled storyteller and Moth main stage host, shares a humorous tale from her tackle football days. Tina Moore connects with her son through the thrills of fantasy football, illustrating the beauty of family bonds. Adam Bottner reminisces about a life-changing encounter with a sports icon in an unexpected location. These heartfelt stories intertwine football with themes of love, nostalgia, and the joy of connection, celebrating how the sport shapes lives and relationships.

Meredith Morrison shares her reluctant rise to lead actress in a middle school play, revealing her unexpected journey of self-discovery. Betty Reid Soskin recounts her brave experience moving into a segregated neighborhood in the 1950s, exploring the challenges and resilience of being a Black woman at that time. Jayson Nuñez reminisces about his seventh birthday, and the heart-wrenching loss of his beloved bike, blending nostalgia with a sense of adventure. These stories elegantly unveil personal growth through surprising revelations.

Lori Tucker-Sullivan, a Detroit writer and educator, shares her experience with bizarre phone calls. Morgan Balavage, a traveling yoga teacher, recounts the emotional fallout of a friend's betrayal at work. Matthew Trenda reveals his online feud with a stranger, illustrating the chaos of internet disputes. Diego Aguirre, a NYC actor and former Marine, humorously navigates the challenges of owning a dog while grappling with anger. Together, these stories explore human rivalries, misunderstandings, and the quirks of personal conflicts.

In this engaging conversation, Katie Rivard, a product designer and passionate soccer player, shares her journey of self-discovery through dance. She highlights how reconnecting with her passion helped her navigate challenges and reclaim her identity. Rivard emphasizes the joy of movement for all ages and discusses the empowerment and self-acceptance she gained, despite initial fears. She also touches on the importance of health and wellness in her dance journey, linking it to personal empowerment and overall well-being.

Join Christopher Skaife, the Ravenmaster at the Tower of London, as he hilariously recounts his chaotic first day and the unbelievable bond he shares with the ravens. Dame Wilburn shares her lighthearted adventure of raising chickens in Detroit, complete with comical trials and triumphs. Meanwhile, Irene Pepperberg delves into her groundbreaking research on gray parrots, reflecting on her deep connection with Alex, her beloved parrot. It's a feathered gathering filled with laughter, insights, and the unique relationships that make life richer.

In this vibrant live recording, Webster Isheanopa Makombe shares a poignant childhood tale of navigating Zimbabwe's economic crisis while on a quest for bread. Nsovo Mayimele, a pharmacist, recounts a heartwarming encounter that rekindles her passion for compassionate patient care. Mathilda Matabwa dives into her entrepreneurial journey, describing how she launched a public toilet business to support her family amidst a bustling guest environment. Each story reveals unexpected connections and the beauty of resilience.

Join Ian Stewart, a Portland-based writer known for his short story collection 'Bittersweet,' and Melissa Earley, a United Methodist pastor and creative spirit from Leadville, Colorado. Ian shares his battle to quit smoking, uncovering the mix of joy and regret tied to his addiction. Meanwhile, Melissa recounts her transformative solo vacation to Guatemala post-divorce, navigating feelings of nostalgia and independence. Both stories highlight resilience, reflecting on personal challenges and adventures in the face of change.

Aaron Pang, a software engineer, shares his emotional journey navigating public transit with a disability, highlighting vulnerability and humor. Michelle Robertson recounts a lifelong sibling rivalry against the backdrop of her parents' unexpected divorce, reflecting on family dynamics. Patience Murray, entrepreneur and shooting survivor, offers a gripping narrative of resilience after the Pulse nightclub tragedy, addressing trauma and healing. Together, these stories illuminate the unpredictability of life and the strength found in personal storytelling.

In this engaging discussion, Amir Baghdadchi humorously recounts a chaotic stint as a mummy in a haunted attraction. Michael Maina shares his emotional journey as a Kenyan doctor advocating for sexual and reproductive health in underserved communities. Katy Strange reveals her childhood dream of joining a church puppetry team, struggling with familial expectations. Jenny Nguyen dives into her culinary adventures, detailing her journey from kitchen chaos to creating a women's sports bar, celebrating the power of culture and connection.

Stephanie Garibaldi, a story coach and director of Story Extreme, shares a humorous tale about her daughter’s clever plan for Santa. Justin Werfel, a Harvard research scientist known for his work on collective intelligence, recounts his heartfelt attempt to impress his father with a special gift. Their stories explore the emotional rollercoaster of gift-giving and the surprising selflessness that can emerge during the holidays, highlighting the true meaning of gratitude and connection.