The Moth Podcast Episode Summary: "Carlos Kotin & Judith Benezra: StorySLAM Favorites"
Release Date: April 23, 2012
Introduction
In this episode of The Moth, host Dan Kennedy sets the stage for an engaging evening of storytelling by announcing significant upcoming events, including the prestigious 2012 Moth Award honoring filmmaker Martin Scorsese. He highlights the vibrancy of The Moth community, detailing events like the Moth Ball in New York City and the Past Tense tour in Milwaukee. The focus of the episode, however, remains on two captivating stories from their StorySLAM series—competitive storytelling events held in seven cities across the United States.
“This week we bring you two stories from our Story Slam series...” [02:11]
Carlos Kotin's Story: "Coco and the Power of Persuasion"
Carlos Kotin, a native of Mexico City raised in Southern California, delivers a heartfelt narrative centered around the adoption of his family dog, Coco. The story unfolds with Carlos recounting childhood visits to the dog pound with his father, where they encounter Coco, a dilapidated poodle facing inevitable euthanasia.
“And she had to leave the concrete patio... She would only pee and go to the bathroom in the cracks, the cement.” [04:20]
Despite initial reservations, Carlos and his family decide to give Coco a chance, agreeing to keep her for a trial period before potentially rehoming her. However, Coco's peculiar behavior and reluctance to adapt to their home lead them to seek a new family. After placing an ad in the Penny Saver, a mismatch occurs when the dog pound mistakenly believes Carlos has redistributed Coco. Determined to maintain their bond, Carlos and his father visit the pound, only to witness Coco's yearning for their return.
“What are you doing? And we felt really bad, but we kept walking...” [07:15]
Faced with Coco's obvious distress, they make the compassionate decision to bring her back home, solidifying the unwavering connection they share. Carlos reflects on the importance of persuasion—not just convincing others but also advocating for what truly matters in their lives.
Notable Quotes:
- “She was just...like her soulmate.” [05:30]
- “Coco was a very odd dog. So we lasted two weeks.” [07:00]
Background: Carlos Kotin is known for his affinity with animals, once owning five pet chickens and authoring a comic memoir titled Please God, Let It Be Herpes: A Heartfelt Quest for Love and Companionship.
Judith Benezra's Story: "The Sardine Sandwich"
Judith Benezra shares a poignant and deeply personal story from her sixth-grade years, illustrating the complexities of maternal love and the struggles of adolescence. Raised in Orange County, Judith's daily lunch was a pita bread sandwich filled with cream cheese and sardines—a meal that starkly contrasted with the social dynamics of her school.
“Why couldn't have my mom just made me a goddamn cheese sandwich for lunch.” [09:00]
Her mother's insistence on providing nutritionally dense meals clashed with Judith's desire for social acceptance. The sardine sandwiches became a symbol of her mother's attempts to instill healthy habits, but they also rendered Judith an outcast among her peers. Compounded by her physical challenges, including a droopy eyelid from childhood cancer and scoliosis requiring a back brace, Judith felt isolated and yearned for normalcy.
“No matter how much I respectfully asked my mom to please give me just something else, she would not pander to lunchroom politics.” [12:45]
Judith's rebellion peaks when she pleads for a more conventional sandwich, only to be met with steadfast resistance from her mother. This moment marks a pivotal "point of no return," leading to strained relationships and deep emotional scars. However, Judith ultimately reconciles with her mother's intentions, recognizing the love and lessons embedded in her strict upbringing.
“I love that my mom never made me a goddamn cheese sandwich for lunch. Thank you.” [15:10]
Notable Quotes:
- “If kids don't want to sit next to you because of what I send you to eat, well then those kids are just not worth sitting next to.” [11:30]
- “Eating had become my only friend and comfort and an enemy.” [14:00]
Background: Judith Benezra is a multifaceted talent in Los Angeles, known for her work as a writer, actress, and comedian. Admiring figures like David Sedaris and Mae West, Judith brings a blend of humor and vulnerability to her storytelling.
Conclusion
Dan Kennedy wraps up the episode by highlighting Judith Benezra's vibrant personality and encourages listeners to support The Moth through donations or membership. He emphasizes the organization's commitment to free storytelling and the shared human experience it fosters.
“We hope you have a story worthy week.” [15:50]
Additional Information:
- The Moth is a non-profit organization dedicated to the art of storytelling.
- Support can be provided through the podcast contribution page or by becoming a member at themost.org.
This episode of The Moth beautifully encapsulates the essence of personal storytelling, weaving themes of love, perseverance, and the transformative power of relationships. Through Carlos Kotin's tale of unwavering dedication to his pet and Judith Benezra's exploration of maternal sacrifice and adolescent struggle, listeners are invited into deeply emotional and relatable human experiences.