Podcast Summary: RISK! Episode "Darkness Within"

Release Date: January 28, 2025
Host: Taj Easton
Episode Title: Darkness Within

Introduction

In the episode titled "Darkness Within," host Taj Easton sets the stage for a deep dive into the more shadowed aspects of human nature. Emphasizing the theme of confronting internal and external darkness, Taj hints at the intense and unfiltered stories to come. The episode kicks off with a brief nod to heavy metal music, featuring Napalm Death's "You Suffer," setting a gritty tone for the narratives ahead.

Notable Quote:
Ezra Holmland (00:04): "Alright, we're gonna do this, but you need to understand two things. One, I never want to see you again. Two, I want you to come inside of me."

Story 1: Ezra Holmland – "Do You Live with Your Momma?"

Ezra Holmland recounts a harrowing experience that intertwines themes of domestic abuse, psychological trauma, and complex human emotions. At 23, Ezra moves in with his girlfriend, Kate, in Southeast Portland. Initially, their relationship seems harmonious, but tensions arise when Kate discovers disturbing entries in Ezra's journal—specifically about a character named Thatcher.

Ezra narrates a vivid encounter where Kate confronts him about his writings, leading to a physically and emotionally abusive confrontation. He describes the surreal experience of being assaulted by a version of himself, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination. This traumatic event triggers a PTSD flashback to a previous unsettling encounter with a mysterious woman at a bar, further complicating his mental state.

Throughout the story, Ezra grapples with feelings of guilt, confusion, and the desperate need for understanding. His journey culminates in a moment of self-reflection, where he decides to take control of his narrative by writing himself into his stories, symbolizing a path toward healing and self-awareness.

Notable Quotes:

• Ezra Holmland (06:35): "So I was 23 years old, and for the first time in my life, I'd moved in with a girlfriend for legal reasons, let's call her Kate."
• Ezra Holmland (15:20): "I realized if I was ever going to start making sense of, like, all the crazy shit that happens in this world, the first thing that I needed to do was start writing myself into my own stories."

Host's Commentary on Ezra

After Ezra's intense narrative, Taj Easton offers commendations for Ezra's storytelling prowess. He highlights Ezra's ability to weave unhinged yet captivating tales, urging listeners to explore more of Ezra's work, including his upcoming long-form story about living as a fugitive in Brazil. Taj also promotes Ezra's performances at the Gorge Speakeasy in Hood River, Oregon, encouraging fans to attend and support his monthly shows.

Notable Quote:
Taj Easton (24:20): "All of Ezra's stories are so wild you will not believe. It's like, how did all of this stuff happen to you? Bless him. Ezra's amazing and he's totally unhinged and so funny."

Story 2: Rocky Ross – "Eye of the Beholder"

Rocky Ross delivers a gripping tale set in February 1986, exploring themes of trust, cultural clashes, and the fragility of life. The story unfolds in the vibrant backdrop of Rio de Janeiro during Carnaval. Rocky, alongside Madeline, an American ballet dancer with visible scars from a past accident, and Lucia, a charismatic Brazilian tour guide, embark on a road trip to the seaside town of Paraty.

What begins as a joyous adventure quickly spirals into chaos as Lucia's demeanor shifts ominously. Rocky describes Lucia's sudden coldness and escalating paranoia, leading to a frantic and perilous drive back to Rio. Amidst a tropical storm, their car's brakes fail, resulting in a terrifying standstill on a flooded freeway. The ordeal concludes with Lucia's tragic death from a heart attack, attributed to the immense stress and fear she endured during the crisis.

Rocky reflects on the psychological impact of the events, pondering the power of belief and the mind-body connection. The story serves as a poignant reminder of how deeply our perceptions and fears can influence our physical well-being.

Notable Quotes:

• Rocky Ross (26:47): "She was a witch. She was giving me the evil eye."
• Rocky Ross (42:12): "The mind-body connection is a powerful thing. I saw it. And I know it really does matter where we focus our thoughts on good or ill, love or hate, darkness or light."

Host's Commentary on Rocky

Taj Easton praises Rocky Ross for her professional storytelling skills, acknowledging the intensity and emotional depth of her narrative. He mentions Rocky's role as the host of "Storytelling Reimagined," a live storytelling show on California's central coast, and directs listeners to her YouTube channel for more of her engaging stories.

Notable Quote:
Taj Easton (43:35): "Rocky is the host of the reboot story Storytelling Reimagined. It's a live story show on California's central coast. You can check out the Reboot YouTube channel if you want to hear more of Rocky's fabulous stories."

Closing Remarks

Taj Easton concludes the episode by expressing gratitude towards the podcast's Patreon patrons, sharing heartfelt messages from listeners like John, who appreciates the diverse voices featured on the show. He emphasizes the importance of community support in sustaining RISK!'s mission to be a haven for unique and unconventional stories. Taj encourages listeners to share their own stories and remain engaged with the podcast's future episodes.

Notable Quote:
Taj Easton (44:42): "Folks, reach out if you got anything to tell us. You know, we're making this every week, but we don't. What are you guys doing? We don't hear from you all that much."

Key Takeaways

• Exploration of Darkness: Both stories delve into personal and psychological darkness, illustrating how individuals confront and navigate through their inner demons and external challenges.

• Power of Storytelling: The episode highlights the therapeutic and revelatory power of sharing personal narratives, as seen in Ezra's decision to rewrite his stories and Rocky's recounting of traumatic events.

• Community and Support: Emphasizing the role of listeners and patrons, the episode underscores the importance of community support in fostering a space for diverse and unfiltered storytelling.

For more stories like "Darkness Within," visit RISK!'s official website or follow them on their social media channels. Don't forget to support the show on Patreon to help continue bringing bold and honest stories to the forefront.