Podcast Summary: RISK! Episode "Campy!"
Title: Campy!
Host: Kevin Allison
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Description: In this heartfelt and humorous episode of RISK!, host Kevin Allison brings listeners two deeply personal coming-of-age stories set against the backdrop of summer camp experiences. Despite the timing of a tragic event in Texas, the episode "Campy!" aims to celebrate the joys and challenges of summer camp through the vivid narratives shared by Lindsay Ames and Shannon M. Turner.
Introduction and Context
At the outset, Kevin Allison addresses a recent tragedy—terrible flooding at Camp Mystic Summer Camp in Texas that resulted in the loss of 27 lives, including campers and counselors. He expresses his condolences and clarifies that the episode, originally titled "Campy!", was intended to highlight nostalgic and positive summer camp memories amidst a time of national sorrow.
Notable Quote:
"This episode is called Campy because it features two coming of age stories by women who look back with fondness at their experiences at summer camp."
— Kevin Allison [00:00]
Despite the somber announcement, Allison transitions smoothly into the episode's main content, ensuring that the stories remain the focal point.
Lindsay Ames: "The Jerk"
Timestamp Highlights:
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[07:27] Lindsay Ames begins her candid and humorous recounting of her sexual awakening at Jewish Camp Atikva when she was 14 years old. She vividly describes her physical insecurities and her heightened sexual awareness during her teenage years.
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[12:03] Lindsay shares an intimate moment during a movie night where she attempts to engage with Tony Smith, the camp's most popular and attractive camper. She describes the awkward yet memorable experience of attempting to give him a massage, only to find herself momentarily starstruck by his presence.
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[13:42] A pivotal moment occurs when Lindsay discovers that her friend Carly has unexpectedly joined her and Tony in the sleeping bag, leading to an uncomfortable and confusing situation.
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[15:50] Lindsay humorously concludes her story by revealing the aftermath of the incident, including Tony being grounded for a hickey she gave him and later experiences that further define her coming-of-age journey.
Notable Quotes:
"I was so flat that my tits were practically coming out my back and I just had this really pointy, pointy vagina. Just really, really sharp."
— Lindsay Ames [01:58]
"If you were sent to spy on me."
— Shannon M. Turner [34:47]
"Lego my Eggo, please."
— Lindsay Ames [15:53]
Lindsay's story blends humor with vulnerability, offering listeners an unfiltered glimpse into her teenage experiences at summer camp. Her narrative explores themes of self-image, friendship, and the awkwardness of first sexual encounters, all delivered with her characteristic wit and honesty.
Shannon M. Turner: "Tomfoolery"
Timestamp Highlights:
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[20:57] Shannon M. Turner dives into her deep-seated affection for her favorite camp counselor, Tom, highlighting her first major crush and the impact he had on her camp experience. She paints a vivid picture of Tom's charismatic presence and her admiration for him.
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[23:45] Shannon recounts the emotional turmoil following the death of Tom's beloved cat, Arthur, which serves as a catalyst for her evolving feelings and the complexity of her relationships at camp.
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[34:37] The tension escalates as Shannon details a fraught interaction with Andy, another counselor, leading to a near-confrontation that underscores the unspoken emotional strains among the camp staff.
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[37:31] In a climactic moment, Shannon describes a metaphorical and literal storm that mirrors her internal conflicts, culminating in a pivotal decision to leave camp and redefine her life beyond the confines of her youthful affections.
Notable Quotes:
"Now, I feel like I melted inside. Like all of my insides just dropped down into my toes as I crossed over this line from little girl crush into grown up love."
— Shannon M. Turner [23:45]
"Andy said, you think Tom doesn't know how you feel about him? And I said, what do you mean? And he said, he knows."
— Shannon M. Turner [34:45]
"I installed a new operating system, one that was just for me."
— Shannon M. Turner [37:39]
Shannon's narrative delves into the complexities of adolescent love, unrequited feelings, and the challenges of maintaining personal identity amidst emotional turbulence. Her story is poignant, capturing the essence of longing and the courage to move forward despite lingering affections.
Host’s Updates and Reflections
Throughout the episode, Kevin Allison intersperses the stories with personal updates and reflections about the state of the RISK! podcast. He candidly discusses financial challenges, his upcoming move to Bangkok, and reassurances that the podcast will continue despite these changes.
Notable Quotes:
"Risk is not going anywhere. Some people seem to think that because I'm moving to Bangkok that the show might be winding down. That is not the game plan."
— Kevin Allison [05:31]
"I'm teaching two new online storytelling workshops, one starting in July, another in August. People are just loving these Workshops."
— Kevin Allison [19:47]
Allison's transparency about the podcast's behind-the-scenes challenges adds a layer of authenticity and fosters a deeper connection with the audience. He also promotes listener engagement through storytelling workshops and upcoming live events, emphasizing the community-driven spirit of RISK!.
Conclusion
"Campy!" serves as a testament to the enduring impact of summer camp experiences on personal growth and identity formation. Through Lindsay Ames' and Shannon M. Turner's stories, listeners are invited to reflect on their own formative years, the friendships forged, and the emotional landscapes navigated during those pivotal summers. Kevin Allison masterfully balances the celebratory tones of nostalgia with the seriousness of contemporary events, offering a rich and engaging narrative that resonates deeply with both long-time fans and new listeners alike.
Final Notable Quote:
"Today's the day. Take a risk."
— Kevin Allison [43:36]
This closing encouragement encapsulates the essence of the episode, urging listeners to embrace vulnerability and share their own stories, no matter how daunting it may seem.
Additional Information:
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Stories Featured:
- Lindsay Ames – "The Jerk"
- Shannon M. Turner – "Tomfoolery"
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Host Insights:
- Financial challenges and relocation plans.
- Upcoming storytelling workshops and live events.
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Support and Engagement:
- Listeners are encouraged to support the podcast through Patreon.
- Opportunities to participate in online storytelling events and workshops.
For more stories and to support RISK!, visit www.risk-show.com.