RISK! Podcast Episode Summary: "What I'm Made Of"

Podcast Information:

• Title: RISK!
• Host: Kevin Allison
• Episode: What I'm Made Of
• Release Date: May 22, 2025
• Description: If you enjoy storytelling podcasts like The Moth or This American Life, RISK! offers uncensored, jaw-dropping true stories shared by individuals who otherwise might never dare to speak publicly. Hosted by Kevin Allison of the legendary comedy group The State, the show blends humor, heartache, and raw authenticity.

Introduction

In the "What I'm Made Of" episode, Kevin Allison revisits two profoundly moving narratives that delve deep into personal transformation and resilience. This episode re-releases content from April 2013, presenting stories that highlight how individuals confront their pasts, redefine their identities, and find new meanings in life’s adversities.

Shen Wei's Story: "But Now I See"

Timestamp: 05:02

Shen Wei, a distinguished artist whose work has graced the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Library of Congress, shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Shanghai to becoming an internationally acclaimed photographer.

Childhood in Shanghai: Shen grew up in a sprawling slum in Shanghai, a stark contrast to his grandfather's affluent past. The Cultural Revolution had stripped his family of wealth, compelling his mother to marry into a working-class family to secure a stable future. Shen recounts:

“Because I was raised in Shanghai in a slum, I had never stepped foot in an art museum before. And I couldn't get over how much I felt like I'd arrived at home.” (05:02)

His childhood was marked by overcrowded living conditions, playing in the maze-like streets, and enduring the harsh realities of a community fraught with poverty and limited resources.

Artistic Awakening: At eight years old, Shen’s mother recognized his artistic talents, encouraging him to pursue art despite the restrictive environment in China during the late 90s. Shen describes his early artistic endeavors:

“I spent a lot of time just outside, playing with other children, chasing around the maze that was the street of the slum…”

Pursuit of Art Education: Driven by his passion, Shen pursued art education abroad, attending the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, and later, graduate school in New York City. This transition not only honed his artistic skills but also created a cultural and emotional rift between him and his father, who remained immersed in manual labor.

Reconnecting with His Father Through Art: A pivotal moment in Shen’s story occurs during a family visit to the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. For the first time, his father engages deeply with art, particularly Rodin’s "The Thinker." Shen reflects:

“At that moment, I realized that my father was in a museum for the first time in his life… I almost burst into tears.” (Approx. 20:00)

This shared experience bridges the emotional gap between father and son, illustrating how art can unify and heal fractured relationships.

Themes and Insights: Shen’s narrative emphasizes the transformative power of art in personal and familial reconciliation. It highlights the journey from deprivation to self-expression and the universal language that art provides, allowing individuals to connect beyond cultural and generational divides.

Ed Gavigan's Story: "Whatever Doesn't Kill Me"

Timestamp: 25:10

Ed Gavigan recounts a harrowing experience that nearly cost him his life and the subsequent journey of recovery and self-discovery.

The Attack: Ed describes waking up in the hospital with life-threatening injuries inflicted by a gang initiation ritual in Brooklyn. He narrates:

“I wasn't wearing any of my own clothes. I had a tube up my nose… two homicide detectives.” (25:10)

With only a 2% chance of survival, Ed’s quick thinking and boxing skills saved him by incapacitating one attacker, allowing him to flee.

Struggles Post-Attack: Despite surviving the attack, Ed faces immense physical and emotional challenges:

“I can't eat, I can't sleep. I couldn't lay on my back… every time I started to doze off, the movie would start, and I just was engulfed in terror.” (Approx. 30:00)

Eviction, homelessness, and the burden of legal proceedings exacerbate his trauma, leaving him feeling isolated and hopeless.

Seeking Help and Facing Rejection: Ed’s attempts to find support are met with societal platitudes that fail to address his pain:

“Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger.” (23:15)

Frustrated by well-meaning but unhelpful responses, Ed grapples with feelings of anger and despair, struggling to find a path forward.

Rebuilding and Finding Meaning: Through the support of a compassionate bartender and the realization that he does not want to succumb to his circumstances, Ed begins to rebuild his life. He finds purpose in meaningful relationships and becomes a father, which provides him with a renewed sense of responsibility and hope.

Themes and Insights: Ed’s story is a testament to human resilience in the face of extreme adversity. It explores the complexities of trauma, the inadequacy of superficial support systems, and the profound impact of personal relationships in the healing process. His journey underscores the importance of authentic connection and the relentless pursuit of meaning despite overwhelming odds.

Concluding Themes and Reflections

Transformation Through Adversity: Both Shen Wei and Ed Gavigan illustrate how confronting and overcoming personal hardships can lead to profound self-discovery and transformation. Their stories highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity to find beauty and meaning even amidst suffering.

The Role of Art and Relationships: Art serves as a central theme in Shen’s story, acting as a bridge between him and his estranged father. In contrast, Ed’s recovery is fueled by meaningful personal relationships. Both narratives emphasize the importance of external forces—be it creative expression or empathetic support—in navigating and healing from trauma.

Authenticity and Vulnerability: RISK!’s platform allows for unfiltered and honest storytelling, providing listeners with authentic glimpses into the lives of others. The rawness of these narratives fosters a deeper understanding and connection among the audience, encouraging vulnerability and shared humanity.

Notable Quotes:

• Shen Wei on finding home in art:

  “Because I was raised in Shanghai in a slum, I had never stepped foot in an art museum before. And I couldn't get over how much I felt like I'd arrived at home.” (05:02)

• Ed Gavigan on facing trauma and societal response:

  “Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger.” (23:15)

• Reflection on shared humanity:

  “My father and I are not really so different.” (Timestamp inferred around Shen Wei’s narrative conclusion)

Conclusion

The "What I'm Made Of" episode of RISK! masterfully captures the essence of human endurance and the transformative power of facing one’s fears and adversities. Through Shen Wei and Ed Gavigan’s poignant stories, listeners are reminded of the strength inherent in vulnerability and the profound impact of art and relationships in shaping our identities. Kevin Allison’s empathetic hosting ensures that these narratives resonate deeply, leaving audiences both moved and inspired.

Remember: If you found these stories compelling, consider sharing RISK! with friends or following the show on Twitter and Facebook for more incredible tales of risk and resilience.