The Moth Podcast Summary Episode: Catherine Smyka & Lisa Schuldt: StorySLAM Favorites
Release Date: December 17, 2012
Host: Dan Kennedy and Ophira Eisenberg

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Moth podcast, hosts Dan Kennedy and Ophira Eisenberg delve into their experiences hosting Moth StorySLAMs in new cities. They share heartfelt stories from two standout storytellers, Catherine Smyka from Seattle and Lisa Schultz from Milwaukee, each embodying the episode's theme of "nerve." Throughout the episode, the hosts provide insightful commentary, setting the stage for the powerful narratives that follow.

Story 1: Catherine Smyka – "Nerve"

Timestamp: [03:06 - 10:14]

Overview:
Catherine Smyka, a Seattle-based writer and the founder of Tour Magazine, shares a poignant story about coming out as a lesbian to her grandmother. The narrative centers on the nerve it took to confront deeply ingrained prejudices within her family and the emotional risk involved in revealing her true self.

Key Points and Discussions:

• Family Dynamics and Prejudice:
  Catherine explains the unspoken family dynamics where her grandmother disapproved of the Ellen DeGeneres show due to Ellen's sexuality. This disapproval made it difficult for Catherine to openly acknowledge her own sexual orientation.

  "There was an unspoken understanding not to tell my grandmother that I was a lesbian." [04:12]

• The Moment of Truth:
  Two years after coming out, during a heartfelt conversation on her grandmother’s porch, Catherine nervously reveals her sexuality. She anticipates a harsh reaction but is met with unexpected warmth and acceptance.

  "You're my granddaughter, and I love you so much. And you should know that there will always be a place at my dinner table for you and whoever you love." [07:48]

• Impact of Acceptance:
  This affirmation transforms their relationship, leading her grandmother to actively oppose homophobic jokes and even welcome the presence of Ellen DeGeneres in the household.

  "Every once in a while, I will even see the Ellen DeGeneres show playing in the living room." [09:48]

Quotes:

• "The nerve of that woman, being all gay in public like that." – Catherine Smyka on her grandmother’s initial disapproval. [04:12]

• "You're my granddaughter, and I love you so much." – Catherine’s grandmother expressing unconditional love. [07:48]

Insights and Reflections:

The story beautifully illustrates the courage required to embrace one's identity and the profound impact of acceptance from loved ones. It highlights how breaking down prejudices can lead to stronger, more supportive family bonds.

Story 2: Lisa Schultz – "Nerve"

Timestamp: [12:42 - 20:35]

Overview:
Lisa Schultz from Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, recounts a harrowing yet transformative experience involving her dog Sadie. The story encapsulates the nerve to face life-threatening situations and the profound personal growth that emerges from such moments.

Key Points and Discussions:

• Everyday Joys and Challenges:
  Lisa describes the deep bond she shares with her husband Mike and their Airedale terrier, Sadie. Their routine walks and the playful interactions with Sadie set a serene backdrop for the impending crisis.

  "One of the highlights of our week is we always take a good long walk with Sadie on Sundays." [13:01]

• The Crisis:
  On a seemingly ordinary February day, Sadie chases ducks and falls through thin ice into the pond. Lisa finds herself on the ice, struggling to save her dog without any immediate help, invoking the theme of nerve in a life-threatening scenario.

  "I reach out, I touch her collar. The ice breaks." [18:59]

• Facing Fear and Survival:
  Lisa’s narrative delves into her panic and determination to save Sadie, drawing parallels to the famous movie "It's a Wonderful Life." Her internal monologue captures the intensity of the moment as she battles fear and exhaustion.

  "Next time you feel like you're over your head, you're drowning, you're losing your nerve, just stand up." [19:48]

Quotes:

• "Saying, honey, stand up. No, wait, wait, wait." – Mike urging Lisa to stay safe while she saves Sadie. [18:59]

• "Next time you feel like you're over your head, you're drowning, you're losing your nerve, just stand up." – Lisa Schultz reflecting on her survival. [19:48]

Insights and Reflections:

Lisa's story is a testament to human resilience and the instinct to protect loved ones, even animals. It underscores the theme of nerve by showcasing the courage required to act in moments of extreme fear, ultimately leading to personal growth and a deeper appreciation for life.

Hosts’ Reflections and Closing Remarks

Dan Kennedy and Ophira Eisenberg offer their heartfelt reflections on both stories, emphasizing the emotional depth and bravery of the storytellers. They highlight the transformative power of sharing personal narratives and the communal support that The Moth fosters through its StorySLAMs.

• Emotional Connection:
  The hosts express how the stories resonate on a personal level, acknowledging the vulnerability and honesty displayed by Catherine and Lisa.

  "That was some nice stuff." – Ophira Eisenberg on Catherine’s story. [09:47]

• Community Building:
  They discuss the importance of these events in creating a supportive community where individuals can safely share their experiences.

  "The moth is sort of like your support. It's a source of support group for your emotions." – Dan Kennedy [12:21]

• Future StorySLAMs:
  The hosts hint at upcoming StorySLAMs in additional cities, promising more compelling stories that continue to embody the spirit of The Moth.

  "In the coming months, we hope to feature some stories from our other two new slam cities, which are Portland and Boston." [20:13]

Conclusion

This episode of The Moth masterfully captures the essence of storytelling by presenting narratives that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Through Catherine Smyka’s courageous coming out and Lisa Schultz’s life-saving determination, listeners are reminded of the profound impact of nerve—the brave acts that define and transform our lives. The hosts’ insightful commentary further enriches the listening experience, making this episode a compelling addition to The Moth’s rich tapestry of human stories.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the substantive stories and discussions presented in the episode.