Podcast Summary: RISK! – The Best of Secret Stories #2

Introduction RISK!, hosted by Kevin Allison, delves into the most daring and intimate true stories people dare to share. In "The Best of Secret Stories #2," released on March 27, 2025, listeners are treated to two compelling narratives that explore themes of survival, cultural identity, and unexpected revelations. This summary captures the essence of both stories, highlighting key moments and notable quotes to provide a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.

1. Borderline: A Tale of Cross-Border Struggle and Friendship

Narrator: Kevin B. (Originally shared in 2015)

Timestamp: [04:36] – [21:17]

Overview: "Borderline" is a harrowing account of an ill-fated attempt to smuggle children across the U.S.-Mexico border. Kevin B. recounts his experience in 2003 when he and his friend Keith, motivated by a sense of adventure and justice, agree to help a Mexican family retrieve their children from Tijuana. The story unfolds with intense emotions, cultural clashes, and the stark realities of border enforcement.

Key Points:

• The Initial Conflict: The story begins with a violent confrontation in Jalisco, Mexico, where cartel members kill members of the Morero family over a debt related to a horse. This tragedy forces the family's children to flee to avoid retaliation.

• The Mission: Roberto Guerrero, father of the deceased, persuades Kevin B. to help retrieve his children from Tijuana. Despite the legality and danger involved, Kevin B. agrees, bringing along his friend Keith to assist.

• Crossing Into Tijuana: Upon arrival, Kevin B. and Keith encounter Roberto's children—Raul (9), Maria (6), and a 2-year-old sister. The cultural and emotional weight of the situation becomes evident as they prepare to transport the children back to the United States.

• Encounter at the Border: As they near the border, tension escalates when a border officer interrogates them. The officer's aggressive demeanor underscores the precariousness of their mission. Raul's interaction with the officer leads to the children being detained, highlighting the innocence and vulnerability of the young ones involved.

• Interrogation and Reflection: Kevin B. describes the harrowing experience in detention, contrasting his own perceived bravery with the genuine life-and-death stakes faced by the children. The encounter serves as a profound lesson in empathy and the harsh realities of immigration enforcement.

Notable Quotes:

• "For us, if we got caught, which was something we very much knew could happen, it was an adventure. It was also a cause for us to grab onto. Maybe we'd get caught, maybe we'd make it through and, like, be heroes." [10:45]

• "For them, it was life or death, and they had just seen death." [15:30]

• "Some people started talking to Roberto and then laughter erupt, noises I was not expecting to hear. And as it did, the officers jumped up behind their desk, slammed their fist on it and said, shut the fuck up." [19:20]

Insights and Conclusions:

"Borderline" serves as a poignant exploration of youthful idealism clashing with harsh realities. Kevin B.'s reflection on the experience underscores the importance of understanding the deeper implications of one's actions, especially when dealing with vulnerable lives. The story emphasizes themes of responsibility, the arbitrary nature of cultural perceptions, and the profound impact of real-world events on personal growth and perspective.

2. Birds Lament: Unveiling Hidden Lives in a Local Dive Bar

Narrator: Unknown Host (Introduced as Moondog)

Timestamp: [22:50] – [33:16]

Overview: In "Birds Lament," listeners are immersed in the vibrant yet gritty atmosphere of a local New York bar owned by Uncle Sal. The story revolves around the revelation of unexpected depths in seemingly ordinary individuals, highlighting themes of judgment, hidden talents, and the complexities of human identity.

Key Points:

• Setting the Scene: The narrator describes Uncle Sal's bar as a quintessential dive bar with a colorful array of regular patrons, each known by nicknames reflecting their most prominent traits.

• Introducing Joe Bird: Among the regulars is Joe Bird, a seemingly typical working-class individual with a moniker that reduces him to his last name. Joe's brother, Billy, is also a regular, known for his shorter stature and dental issues.

• The Unexpected Encounter: One evening, a conflict arises when the narrator gets into an argument with a Chinese food delivery person over an overcharge. The altercation escalates until Joe intervenes, diffusing the situation in an unexpected manner.

• The Revelation: In a surprising twist, Joe communicates fluently in Chinese, calming both the delivery person and himself. He reveals that he and Billy run an illegal business selling street pigeons, a family trade that expanded internationally despite language barriers.

• Assessing Assumptions: The narrator grapples with his preconceived notions about Joe and his brothers, realizing the depth and hidden complexity behind their outward appearances. This epiphany challenges his own biases and judgments.

Notable Quotes:

• "I thought, fuck, this is pretty real. I said, remember, Keith, you don't know anything about the situation that's going on here." [29:50]

• "It's unfucking believable. It is an amazing thing you do. It's like this one fluid motion. You basically go up to said street pigeon and you get about a foot away and you sort of do this thing." [25:40]

• "Without him, I don't think I ever would have had this sort of thought one day. And it's important." [32:50]

Insights and Conclusions:

"Birds Lament" delves into the hidden lives that exist beneath the surface of everyday environments. The story challenges listeners to look beyond superficial judgments and recognize the multifaceted identities people hold. Through Joe Bird's unexpected revelation, the narrative emphasizes the complexity of human nature and the unforeseen paths individuals navigate to sustain themselves. The episode encourages empathy, understanding, and the dismantling of stereotypes that often cloud our perceptions of others.

Conclusion

"The Best of Secret Stories #2" delivers two powerful narratives that underscore the unpredictability of human experiences and the profound lessons they impart. From the intense cross-border struggles in "Borderline" to the surprising depths of a local bar patron in "Birds Lament," the episode showcases the rich tapestry of stories that RISK! is renowned for. These stories not only entertain but also provoke thoughtful reflection on themes of identity, empathy, and the courage it takes to share one's deepest secrets.

Notable Host Commentary

Throughout the episode, Kevin Allison interjects with personal reflections and announcements, including his upcoming online storytelling workshops. These segments provide a personal touch, inviting listeners to engage further with the RISK! community and explore their own storytelling abilities.

Timestamp Highlights:

• "So as long as you're hearing this before August of 2025, email me for more info at kevinrisk-show.com." [02:44]

• "We just heard from Tara Clancy, whose memoir the Clancy's of Queens is phenomenal." [33:16]

Final Thoughts

"The Best of Secret Stories #2" exemplifies what makes RISK! a standout podcast: the bravery of its storytellers and the depth of their experiences. By sharing these secret stories, RISK! fosters a space where genuine, unfiltered narratives can thrive, offering listeners both entertainment and meaningful insights.