This is Love

In this engaging discussion, Heather Lende, a dedicated writer from Haines, Alaska, shares her experiences crafting nearly 500 intimate obituaries that capture the essence of individuals and their stories. She reveals how grief influences her style and the importance of specific details. Joining her is Ed Miller, co-founder of the Provincetown Independent, who emphasizes the significance of personal character in obituaries and the challenges of balancing truth with family sentiments. Together, they highlight the communal value and emotional depth that obituaries bring to life.

When Emma Gatewood was 67, she told her children she was going on a walk. “The next they would hear from her would be via postcard… And it said, ‘By ‘walk’ I mean I'm thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail.’” Ben Montgomery’s book is Grandma Gatewood’s Walk. Say hello on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts. Want to listen to This is Love ad-free? Sign up for Criminal Plus – you’ll get to listen to This is Love, Criminal, and Phoebe Reads a Mystery without any ads. Plus, you’ll get behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal and other exclusive benefits. Learn more and sign up here. We also make Criminal and Phoebe Reads a Mystery. Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop. Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Min Nguyen, an optometrist with a remarkable photographic memory, shares his transformative journey of reconnecting with over 350 former classmates after a serious health scare. He emphasizes the importance of in-person meetings for genuine interactions, recounting candid conversations that reveal deep stories and shared trauma. Min also discusses the unique questions he asks and the profound responses he receives. His project not only reignites old friendships but inspires others to seek connections, showcasing the power of community and empathy.

Nasha Thomas, a former dancer from the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and current Ailey dancer Constance D'Amatiou dive into the intense ballet 'Cry.' Nasha shares vivid rehearsal memories and the emotional weight of performing it, while Constance discusses the physical toll it takes on dancers. They break down the choreography's challenging sections, revealing deep connections to Alvin Ailey's childhood and inspirations. Touching on the legacy of Judith Jamison and the impact of performing 'Cry' at Ailey's funeral, they explore how this piece continues to resonate.

Ava Do, a former pickpocket turned mentalist, and Apollo Robbins, a theatrical pickpocket, share their intriguing love story rooted in deception. They discuss Ava's unique journey from postwar Vietnam to mastering sleight-of-hand under Apollo’s guidance. Their playful relationship is marked by trust tests involving magic and surprise jewelry thefts. Together, they formed a brain trust of deception experts, exploring the ethics of their craft. They also emphasize the importance of critical thinking in raising their daughter, Maya, blending magic with life lessons.

In this episode, Robert Davidson, a renowned Haida artist instrumental in the revival of totem pole carving, shares his journey from a culturally silent childhood in Old Masset to leading a vibrant artistic renaissance. He reflects on the loss of traditions due to colonization and residential schools, his determination to carve the Bear Mother pole, and the joy of community involvement in the pole-raising ceremony. Robert's story highlights a profound cultural rebirth, inspiring the reclaiming of Haida art, dances, and unity among clans.

Nadim Shehzad, a wildlife rescuer and co-founder of a bird hospital in Delhi, shares his journey treating injured black kites. He discusses the cultural significance of kite-flying in India and the challenges of using harmful materials like manja. Nadim recounts emotional stories of rescuing birds, the gap in veterinary care for carnivorous species, and how he learned to perform delicate surgeries. His work, highlighted in the documentary All That Breathes, resonates with the balance between celebration and wildlife safety.

In 1964, a landlord in Washington, DC, noticed that his tenant hadn’t paid rent and went to look for him. The tenant wasn’t in the building – but he’d left behind something strange – something that he’d been working on for 14 years. We have a small favor to ask! We’ve put together a survey about our shows – and our membership program, Criminal Plus – and it would mean a lot to us if you could fill it out. You can find it ⁠at ⁠thisiscriminal.com/survey⁠. Say hello on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts. Want to listen to This is Love ad-free? Sign up for Criminal Plus – you’ll get to listen to This is Love, Criminal, and Phoebe Reads a Mystery without any ads. Plus, you’ll get behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal and other exclusive benefits. Learn more and sign up here. We also make Criminal and Phoebe Reads a Mystery. Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop. Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jeff Ingram, who suffers from dissociative fugue, shares his extraordinary journey of love and identity. He vividly recounts a moment of confusion at a Denver press conference where he couldn’t recognize himself or his past. The conversation dives into how he navigates memory loss with his devoted wife, Penny, showcasing their resilient bond. The couple faces emotional turmoil and bureaucratic challenges together, highlighting both the struggle and beauty of re-establishing their relationship in the face of forgetfulness.

Rick Steves, America's beloved travel guide with over 40 years of experience, shares invaluable tips including why you should never check a bag and always travel with a journal. He emphasizes the joy of immersing in local cultures through authentic dining and personal stories of his travels along the Hippie Trail, filled with vibrant experiences. He also reflects on rediscovering life during the pandemic and how travel can reshape our perspectives, highlighting the importance of meaningful connections while exploring new places.