Taken by Surprise: The Moth Podcast

On this episode, we’ll hear two stories of people going through big changes - as they literally reflect on themselves. This episode was hosted by Larry Rosen.Storytellers:Phineas Knowles has an eventful first shave.Esther Ngumbi vies to get her ears pierced despite her mother's objections.Podcast #1001

In this hour, stories of considering "what's in a name," a dangerous CIA mission, and the rise and fall of an unusual musical act. This episode is hosted by Moth Senior Director Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:What started as a joke on social media becomes a passion project for Brently Heilbron.As the Chief of Disguise at the CIA, Jonna Mendez breaks a cardinal rule and becomes visible.Esau McCaulley prepares for the most difficult eulogy of his pastoral career.Podcast # 1000

In this episode, we’ve got two stories all about finding out where you come from - the process of figuring out who you are in relation to your family, your culture, your background, even your language. This episode was hosted by Emily Couch.Storytellers:Gwendolyn Lopez-Cohen tries to convert to Judaism, but discovers that her family already has a connection to the religion.Iris Luz Hernandez takes a trip to Puerto Rico.Podcast # 999

This episode originally aired on February 14th, 2023.In this episode, stories from the gray areas and in-between spaces. Stuck in the middle, straddling two worlds, or searching for where you belong. This episode is hosted by Grown hosts Aleeza Kazmi and Fonzo Lacayo. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.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.Podcast # 804

This episode originally aired on August 30, 2019Two stories from Los Angeles. This episode was hosted by Dan Kennedy.Storytellers:Bryan Kett encounters some fellow Angelonos at a grocery store.Julieta Gilbert decides to march in a protest.Podcast # 613

In this hour, stories from The Moth's Education Program about starting fresh. New jobs, new schools, and new perspectives. This episode is hosted by Peter Aguero. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Aravah Chaiken learns a lesson about math and life.Edie Wadman comes up with a get-rich-quick scheme—babysitting. Max Chwatko finds comfort during grief. Hope Guzzle prioritizes grades over her health. Andrew McGill finds a new passion, thanks to a 6:45am class. Podcast # 998

On this episode, two stories about two very different kinds of shock and surprise. This episode was hosted by Marc Sollinger.Storytellers:Susan Rohde is surprised to discover her nine year-old foster daughter making some unauthorized Amazon purchases. Stephanie Rogers’ feels helpless when her son, who lives on the other side of the country, undergoes anaphylactic shock.Podcast # 998

This episode originally aired on December 20th, 2022.In this episode, stories of historical events and momentous decisions with far-reaching impacts. A teacher who pushes boundaries, a trail-blazing student, and a political prisoner in Soviet Russia. This episode is hosted by Moth Director Meg Bowles. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Toby Price faces unexpected consequences when he introduces his students to a book he and his family love. Dr. Sybil Jordan Hampton follows in the footsteps of the Little Rock Nine. Victor Levenstein realizes one thing has accompanied him throughout his time in a Soviet prison: his mugshot. Podcast # 796

On this episode, a story about a veterinarian and a story about a mermaid, both from our incredible StorySlams in Birmingham, Alabama. This episode was hosted by Suzanne Rust.Storytellers:Veronika Kiklevich treats a dog that’s swallowed something a bit unexpected.Bob Byrd accidentally breaks his mother’s mermaid.

In this hour, we bring you to Johannesburg for a special live edition of The Moth Radio Hour. Stories of invention, beauty pageants in the time of Nelson Mandela, and finding balance. This episode is hosted by Moth Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness, with additional live hosting by Lebo Mashile. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.Storytellers:Brian Turyabagye tries to have his cake and eat it too.Lebo Mogashoa is determined to become Mr. South Africa.Lisa Muchoki realizes the true dangers of her job. Podcast # 999