Show cover of The Moth

The Moth

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.

Tracks

The Moth Radio Hour: A Brave Front
In this hour, stories of finding inner strength in the face of unimaginable odds. The courage to make life or death choices, stick to one's guns, and not only survive, but thrive. This hour is hosted by Moth Radio Hour Producer, Jay Allison. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Storytellers: Les Strayhorn heeds his father's advice. District Fire Chief Michael McNamee confronts his worst fear. Robin Utz comes to face the hardships of pregnancy and love.
52:53 6/6/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Hesitations
Hold your horses! In this hour, stories of slowing down, holding off, or taking a pause. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media Storytellers: Theresa Thames officiates a wedding in Hawaii. Ryan Roe contends with having Tourette Syndrome in school. Linda Grosser loses faith in online dating as she approaches a milestone birthday. AJ Jacobs, an inexperienced jigsaw puzzler, finds himself at the world championships.
53:26 5/30/23
They Say It’s Your Birthday: Sheila Cavanaugh and Sandra Kwawu
On this episode, stories all about birthdays - and the importance we place on them. This episode is hosted by Kate Tellers. Storytellers: Sheila Cavanaugh accidentally steals someone else’s birthday. Sandra Kwawu finds comfort in a celebration with her friends and family.
17:31 5/26/23
The Moth Radio Hour: The Rest is History
In this hour, an ancient instrument, a life-changing disaster, and survival in the face of genocide. People who experienced history, and its artifacts, firsthand. Hosted by The Moth's Senior Director, Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Storytellers: Musician Frank Almond makes a historic discovery. Sivad Johnson takes us behind the scenes of the Detroit Fire Department. Henny Lewin, a young Jewish girl, is smuggled out of a Lithuanian ghetto during WWII.
53:22 5/23/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Mum's the Word
Oh, mother! In this episode, stories celebrating birth givers, mother figures, and the many ways in which one can show up as a mom. This episode is hosted by Moth Producer and Director Chloe Salmon. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media Storytellers: Marya Morris is in over her head as a new stay-at-home stepmom. Pamela Covington cooks a difficult holiday meal for her family. Annie Share and her mom become business women on the cat show circuit. Amanda Johnston is inspired by a vulnerable conversation with her daughter.
53:25 5/16/23
Risqué Business: Whitney Connolly and Caroline Woodward
We’ve got two SLIGTHLY spicy stories. Don’t worry nothing untowards happens, but if you’re listening with kids, you might want to wait on this one. This episode is hosted by Michelle Jalowski. Storytellers: Whitney Connolly shares a photo without realizing what else is in the background. A trip to Brazil provides a great teaching moment for both Caroline Woodward and her 3 year daughter.
16:23 5/12/23
The Moth Radio Hour: In Famiglia
In this hour, stories dealing with all things family: from sibling hi-jinx, to the difficulties of having children (and parents). Hosted by Moth Radio Hour Producer Jay Allison. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Kay Elmsley Weeden and her siblings have adventures on the Wisconsin River. Marjace Miles searches for meaning amidst an unexpected pregnancy. Bob Baril gets a once in a lifetime experience with his son. Jahvannia Darling keeps a secret from her mother. Qing Zhao must choose between love and her career. Carmen Putnam experiences the hope of a new pregnancy while mourning her stillborn child.
53:27 5/9/23
The Moth Radio Hour: The Push and the Pull
In this hour, stories of strength of will, crystallizing under pressure, and the power of intentionally directed anger. This episode is hosted by Moth Artistic Director, Catherine Burns. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Catherine Burns Storytellers: As he raises his strong-willed daughter, R.A. Villanueva remembers the other powerful women in his life. Mary Ann Ludwig reaches her potential during a funerary mishap. Self-described unathletic man, Steve Clark, signs up for the Philadelphia marathon. Amber Phillips learns the art of tension.
53:27 5/2/23
Pet Stars: Scott Sanders and Noriko Rosted
In honor of National Adopt a Shelter Pet day on April 30th, we’re sharing two Moth stories all about the special role pets play in our lives. This episode is hosted by the Moth’s Social Media Coordinator, Estee Daveed. Storytellers: Scott Sanders deals with jealousy as his dog becomes a more successful actor than he is. Noriko Rosted must find a pet sitter for her beloved cat before her trip to Italy.
23:27 4/28/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Bearing Witness
In this hour, stories about seeing and witnessing. This episode is hosted by Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Meg Bowles Storytellers: Alice Schaffer, a preacher's daughter, grows up in fear of the lessons learned in Sunday school. Dawn Ross tries to adjust to life in rural Arkansas. D. Parvaz, a journalist covering the uprising in Syria, is arrested and imprisoned. Leland Melvin suffers a devastating injury that cuts short his dream of flying in space.
53:28 4/25/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Walking the Walk
In this hour, stories of finding one's way—through heartbreak, adolescence, times of crisis, and public nudity. This episode is hosted by Moth storyteller Samuel James. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Samuel James Storytellers: Kristin Lee tries to make friends at genetics camp. 8-year-old Maura Schneider and her friend hatch a revenge plan after experiencing their first rejection. Kaya Jarvis gets the help she needs from an unexpected source. Samuel Blackman contends with the realities of working in pediatric oncology. Annie Linn navigates having her mother as her high school English teacher. Evie O'Reilly goes on her first naked bike ride.
53:25 4/18/23
Saying More with Less: Natalie Bell and Glenn North
We hear stories about poetry and how it can bring people together. This episode is hosted by Keighly Baron. Storytellers: Natalie Bell - Orthodontia and a high school poetry reading lead to awkwardness. Glenn North - Feeling despondent about moving back to his hometown of Kansas City, MO to take care of a sick parent, a young poet decides to rejuvenate the arts scene with a poetry night.
22:21 4/14/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Don't Stop the Music
In this hour, Motown, hip hop, folk and pop. Stories of the indelible impact of music on both its creators and listeners. This hour is hosted by The Moth's Senior Director Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Jenifer Hixon Storytellers: David Montgomery gets immersed in Spice World. Cal Street describes her time as part of The Velvelettes. Dawn Smith grows up in a cult that forbids music. Jin Au-Yeung's lyricism connects him to Barack Obama.
53:26 4/11/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Matters of the Heart
In this episode, stories about finding, keeping, and losing love. Hosted by Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Meg Bowles Storytellers: Kristy Hawkins Kemp Powers Niall Ashdown Esther McManus
53:26 4/4/23
NYC Punks: Alistair Bane and Eddy Laughter
In this episode, we’ll be playing an episode from the Moth’s very first spinoff podcast, Grown! Subscribe to Grown wherever you get your podcasts, or check out its website for more information: www.grownpod.com This episode is hosted by Sarah Jane Johnson.
28:57 3/31/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Hearing Voices
In this hour: stories of the power of sound -- and the newness we find through listening, and trusting our ears. Hosted by The Moth's Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media Hosted by: Sarah Austin Jenness Storytellers: Stanley Alpert relies on his hearing when he is kidnapped. Faith Ekienabor finds a brand new way to her college class. T Dixon discovers the power of her own voice. Anna Schuleit builds an unconventional instrument.
53:29 3/28/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Bold Moves
In this episode, stories of stepping up, taking charge, and taking chances. Hosted by The Moth’s Senior Curatorial Producer, Suzanne Rust. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Suzanne Rust Storytellers: Aleta Myles goes camping for the first time in a desert in Israel. In a dark place, Sean Wellington finds comfort in dance class. Newly licensed James Fitzgerald's first road trip goes awry. Amber Jo Hatt attempts to take her friends on a big adventure. Despite the potential consequences, Air Force officer Rachel Pomeroy reports an inappropriate incident. 5 year old Mohammed Zeeshan Nayeemuddin has an adventure on his way home from school.
53:27 3/21/23
On the Couch with a Good Book: Kashyap Raja and Errol McLendon
We hear stories about how books and reading can foster connection. This episode is hosted by Emily Couch Storytellers: Kashyap Raja finds beauty in reading the Gruffalo to a young child. Errol McLendon receives some heartfelt gifts.
15:41 3/17/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Knowing When And How To Fight
In this hour, five stories of picking our battles. The internal and external pressures that guide how we speak up, speak out, or stay silent. Hosted by The Moth's Artistic Director Catherine Burns. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Catherine Burns Storytellers: Hillary Boone and her mother scheme to save Vermont from hate. Maria Hodermarska fights for services for her son. Ed Mabaya finds himself in danger while visiting his girlfriend. Brad Lawrence and his sister work their mom's last nerve with their brawling. Angela Lush struggles to speak up.
53:28 3/14/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Location, Location, Location
In this hour, stories of the places that leave a lasting impression. A skating rink, a golf course, a restaurant, and a cemetery. This episode is hosted by Moth director Chloe Salmon. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Chloe Salmon Storytellers: Jacoby Cochran and his family build a home at Rich City Skate. Holly Thompson and her grandfather share a love of golf. After a turbulent history in online dating, Leah Haydock finds solace in pasta. Marguerite Maria Rivas searches for her daughter's grave.
53:26 3/7/23
Looking for Omelanka: Jean-Michele Gregory
We hear a story from someone searching for their family’s history. This episode is hosted by Michelle Jalowski. If you’d like to see photos of Jean-Michele and her grandmother, go to themoth.org/extras Storyteller: Jean-Michele Gregory
18:58 3/3/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Love, Serve, and Protect
In this hour, stories of heroes, mentors, and our greatest supporters. A Coast Guard rescue swimmer considers his career, a lawyer learns the meaning of justice, and a songstress pens lyrics for her loved one. Hosted by The Moth's Senior Director, Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Meg Bowles Storytellers: Rob Simpson takes us behind the scenes of life as a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer. Sheila Calloway searches for fairness and empathy in the justice system. Beth Nielsen Chapman finds magic in the writing of a song.
53:26 2/28/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Navigating the Gray
This week, stories all about the in-between. This episode is hosted by Aleeza Kazmi and Fonzo Lacayo, the hosts of the Moth’s new spinoff podcast, Grown! If you’re at all a fan of Moth storytelling, subscribe to Grown wherever you get your podcasts, or check out its website for more information: www.grownpod.com Hosted by: Aleeza Kazmi and Fonzo Lacayo Storytellers: Military policeman Carl Cannon is assigned duty in one of the most dangerous prisons on the planet James Han Mattson moves to Korea to meet his birth family and connect with his Korean heritage. First time pageant contestant Nicole Kelly enters the Miss Iowa competition.
53:26 2/21/23
Getting Grown
Here’s a taste of The Moth’s very first spinoff, Grown! Subscribe to Grown wherever you get your podcasts, or check out its website for more information: www.grownpod.com This episode is hosted by Sarah Austin Jenness.
19:58 2/17/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Can't Help Falling in Love
In honor of Valentine's Day, let The Moth whisper sweet somethings in your ear(buds). Stories of falling in love, enduring devotion, and romance that blooms in the most unlikely places—or between the most unlikely people. This episode is hosted by Moth Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Sarah Austin Jenness Storytellers: Inclement weather threatens David Greco's romantic plans for Jazz Fest.  Eva Santiago reconnects with an old friend who is now in prison.  Paola Ayala is worried that her mother found a private letter.   Auburn Shaeffer and her husband share an unlikely first home.  Matthew Mercier uncovers his parents' love story. 
53:27 2/14/23
Moth Mainstage Tour Announcement!
If you love listening to Moth stories on our podcast and radio show, then come experience them live, in-person at our Mainstage events. In this super quick episode, host Sarah Austin Jenness brings you updates on our Winter & Spring Moth Mainstage tour. Visit themoth.org/events to find a Moth event near you! 
03:36 2/10/23
The Moth Radio Hour: 50 Shades of Black
This week, a special episode in honor of Black History Month, with stories that celebrate the diversity of the Black experience. Dye jobs, dream jobs, and swimming pools. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Curatorial Producer, Suzanne Rust. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Suzanne Rust Storytellers: Harold Cox brings his Texas roots--and speech patterns-- to his first Boston radio gig. Danyel Smith follows the music and finds a place for herself in the world of journalism. CJ Hunt grows up trying to "adjust the thermostat" of his racial identity. While out for a swim, Hasna Muhammad finds a kindred spirit.
53:26 2/7/23
An Education: Mariama Diallo and PT Smith
We hear two stories about growing up, as well as listen to a preview of The Moth’s spinoff podcast: Grown. Subscribe to Grown wherever you get your podcasts, or check out its website for more information: www.grownpod.com If you’re a student and want to bring Moth programming to your school, visit our website themoth.org/students. If you’re a teacher, visit themoth.org/education/teachers Hosted by: Devin Elise Wilson Storytellers: Mariama Diallo learns to stand up for herself, and her brother. PT Smith discovers the magic of reading
22:42 2/3/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Second Chances
In this hour, we present four stories of getting another shot. Tales of tenacity, unexpected fortune, and redemption in moments both great and small. Hosted by The Moth's Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Sarah Austin Jenness Storytellers: Joshua Blau loses his wallet on the FDR drive. Navrioska Mateo puts her dream job in peril. Faith Salie has a fashion crisis on a momentous day. Sherman "OT" Powell attempts to reconnect with his family after 34 years.
53:26 1/31/23
The Moth Radio Hour: Driven
Start your engines! In this hour, stories of being driven -- bound, determined, or literally in the passenger seat of a car. This episode is hosted by Moth Director, Jenifer Hixson. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media. Hosted by: Jenifer Hixson Storytellers: Juliette Holmes experiences segregation first hand as a child in Georgia. Tracey Crosier interviews for a radio job and gets more than she bargained for. Jennifer Leahy deals with the death of a patient for the first time. Omar Qureshi tries to show his cousin a good time when he visits the US.
53:27 1/24/23