Podcast Summary: RISK! Episode "The God Problem"

Introduction

In the "The God Problem" episode of RISK!, host Kevin Allison delves deep into his personal journey with faith, exploring the profound impact of his devout Catholic upbringing. Released on November 14, 2024, this episode marks a reflective milestone for Allison, who revisits content from his earlier years to shed light on how his religious experiences have shaped his life and worldview.

1. Revisiting "The God Problem"

Kevin Allison begins the episode by introducing "The God Problem," an episode from RISK!'s archives that has resonated with many listeners over the years. Reflecting on his age and personal growth—from sharing primarily humorous and edgy stories before age 42 to now presenting more introspective narratives at 54—Allison sets the stage for a candid exploration of his faith and its complexities.

Notable Quote:

• [01:04] Kevin Allison: "At that point in Risk's history, I had pretty much only shared funny or kinky stories on the show before I was 42..."

2. Story One: "The Miracle Worker"

Allison recounts a childhood incident that underscores his early relationship with faith and the miraculous. As a young boy enthralled by Catholic rituals and stories, he imagines performing miracles himself. This imaginative play leads to a real-life crisis when he accidentally gets a ring stuck on his finger.

The Incident:

• [07:13] Kevin Allison: "They know not what they do."

Locking himself in the basement to mimic a crucifixion reenactment, Allison decides to put on his sister Becca's amethyst ring—a gesture driven by both curiosity and a desire to challenge gender norms. However, the ring proves impossible to remove, leading to desperation and panic.

Attempts to Remove the Ring:

• Allison's frantic efforts include using a pen and later a steak knife, resulting in injuries and increasing anxiety.

Prayer and Resolution:

• Faced with the potential loss of his finger, Allison turns to prayer, reciting lines from the "Memorare" with newfound sincerity.
• [13:47] Kevin Allison: “Remember, O most gracious Virgin, that never was it known that anyone..."

Miraculously, the ring comes off easily after his prayer, leaving Allison and his sister in awe.

Aftermath and Reflection:

• Encouraged by the incident, Allison enters a school essay contest titled "What Does Mary Mean to Me?" He crafts a narrative that subtly attributes his experience to divine intervention, which wins him the contest and leads to him sharing his story with his peers.

Notable Quote:

• [16:50] Kevin Allison: "Just not as good a story."

Allison reflects on whether the event was a genuine miracle or merely a result of mechanical loosening, ultimately choosing to embrace the narrative of divine intervention in his formative years.

3. Story Two: "Man at Hawaii"

Transitioning to his high school years, Allison shares his experiences during a Jesuit-sponsored mission trip to Peru. This journey becomes a pivotal moment in his understanding of faith, purpose, and personal identity.

The Peru Mission Trip:

• Allison describes the initial days of the trip as unfulfilling until a spontaneous excursion leads them to a desolate shack adorned with a misleading "Hawaii" sign.

Encounter with the "Man at Hawaii":

• [31:54] Kevin Allison: "That's God over there and he's staring at us."

There, Allison meets a destitute man whose piercing gaze and dire condition leave a lasting impression. This encounter ignites a tumultuous internal struggle, blending his religious beliefs with personal doubts and fears.

Creative Expression as Coping:

• Troubled by the man's eyes haunting his thoughts, Allison turns to writing as a means of processing his emotions.
• He pens a raw and emotionally charged poem titled "Man at Hawaii," expressing his inner turmoil and feelings of inadequacy.

Excerpt from the Poem:

• [36:59] Kevin Allison:

  Man at Hawaii. What of me gives you to be?
  Who in me gives you to dance in my nightmares?
  To breathe in my ear, chilled depth?
  Are these my hands that strangle and push your repulse?
  

Sharing the Poem:

• Allison shares the poem with his peers, which eventually reaches Father JFK, the Jesuit priest who previously inspired him.
• Invited to read the poem during a mass, Allison delivers a passionate speech that not only garners a standing ovation but also inspires his fellow students to engage more deeply with mission work.

Impact and Realization:

• Father JFK informs Allison that his speech significantly increased applications for future mission trips, affirming the profound effect of his personal narrative.

Notable Quote:

• [45:09] Kevin Allison: "When you told that story, you were a man for others."

This experience marks a transformative moment for Allison, reinforcing his role in inspiring others despite his lingering self-doubts.

4. Reflections and Conclusions

Throughout "The God Problem," Kevin Allison intertwines personal anecdotes with broader reflections on faith, purpose, and the human condition. His stories illustrate the tension between childhood beliefs and adult understandings, highlighting how pivotal moments and creative expressions shape one's spiritual and emotional landscape.

Allison's narratives reveal a journey of self-discovery, grappling with the expectations of faith, the desire to make meaningful contributions, and the ever-present questioning of one's actions and beliefs. Through humor, vulnerability, and introspection, he invites listeners to contemplate their own experiences with faith and the risks involved in sharing deeply personal stories.

Final Reflection:

• [49:33] Kevin Allison: "Fuck me, fuck me. Hey, folks, there's so much more of Risk in the holiday season."

Allison concludes by emphasizing the ongoing nature of his journey, encouraging listeners to continue exploring and sharing their own stories of risk and faith.

Conclusion

"The God Problem" serves as a profound exploration of Kevin Allison's relationship with faith, illustrating how personal experiences and storytelling can bridge the gap between skepticism and belief. By sharing his struggles and triumphs, Allison not only provides insight into his own life but also resonates with listeners navigating their own spiritual paths.