The Moth Podcast Episode Summary: Dante Jackson & Brie Mann-Hernandez
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Moth
- Host/Author: The Moth
- Episode: Dante Jackson & Brie Mann-Hernandez
- Release Date: July 5, 2016
Introduction
In this engaging episode of The Moth podcast, co-hosts Alfonso Lucayo and D'Avione Walters take over to present two compelling stories from The Moth's Education Program in New York City. Aimed at high school students, the program fosters storytelling skills, culminating in storytelling slams where students share their narratives. This episode features stories by Dante Jackson and Brie Mann-Hernandez, each exploring themes of personal growth and transformation.
Story 1: Dante Jackson – "Unlocking the Dance Floor"
Setting the Stage: Dante Jackson, an aspiring writer and actor, recounts his first foray into public storytelling during his time at the School for Classics in East New York. The theme for his storytelling session was "Free," marking a significant step out of his comfort zone.
Overcoming Fear: Dante opens up about his initial apprehensions, stating, “I wasn't really the type of kid to let myself have any fun. I was afraid that if I let myself have fun, I'd end up being judged” [03:03]. This fear of judgment kept him reserved until prom approached.
The Prom Experience: Prom was a pivotal moment for Dante. Initially reluctant, he was persuaded by friends and family to attend, albeit with little enthusiasm. On the day of the event, Dante describes his preparation: “I throw on my suit, have my little fedora on, you know, stunting” [04:35]. The night began with unfamiliar territory as he found himself standing alone on the dance floor, chicken in hand.
Transition to Freedom: As the DJ’s directive to get everyone dancing took effect, Dante faced a whirlwind of encouragement from his peers: “the DJ decides to put on this song and now he's saying, you know, everybody that's not dancing gotta grab them” [06:15]. Initially resistant, Dante decides to embrace the moment: “I'm just gonna go on that dance floor. I'm gonna have a good time” [06:45].
Transformation: What began as hesitant two-step dances evolved into uninhibited movement. Dante reflects, “That shuffle turns into a crisscross, and that crisscross turns into God knows what” [07:10]. He was amazed by his own transformation on the dance floor, leading to a night he describes as one of the best of his life.
Conclusion of the Story: Dante concludes his narrative with a profound realization: “my life up until that point, I was locked in a dark room, but then I decided to unlock the door and I took a step out and I learned how to dance” [08:25]. This metaphor underscores his journey from fear to freedom.
Quotes:
- “I wasn't really the type of kid to let myself have any fun. I was afraid that if I let myself have fun, I'd end up being judged.” – Dante Jackson [03:03]
- “I'm just gonna go on that dance floor. I'm gonna have a good time.” – Dante Jackson [06:45]
- “my life up until that point, I was locked in a dark room, but then I decided to unlock the door and I took a step out and I learned how to dance.” – Dante Jackson [08:25]
Host Commentary on Dante’s Story
D'Avione Walters and Alfonso Lucayo engage with Dante's story, highlighting his growth and the universal theme of overcoming personal fears. They emphasize the authenticity and relatability of his experience, noting how supportive the audience was in helping Dante transition from anxiety to exhilaration.
Story 2: Brie Mann-Hernandez – "Redefining Family Bonds"
Introduction to the Story: Brie Mann-Hernandez shares a poignant narrative centered around her summer experiences with her step-grandmother, Mila. The theme for her storytelling session was "Risk," illustrating the emotional stakes involved.
Childhood Fears and Misconceptions: Brie begins by revealing her childhood associations: “Cinderella was one of my top 10 movies. And my least favorite character, as I'm pretty sure everyone's was, was the stepmother because she was mean” [09:33]. This led her to associate the prefix "step" with negativity and fear.
The Summer Trip: In third grade, Brie faces the prospect of spending the summer with Mila, her step-grandmother, which she interprets as a punishment. She shares her and her sister’s anxiety: “We were torn between being excited for California because, again, it's also pretty awesome for a third grader. … and being terrified of meeting our step grandma” [10:15].
Initial Interaction: Upon arriving, Brie and her sister are met by Mila, who initially appears kind and welcoming: “she walks up and she's like, hi. And I'm like, hello. What do you want?” [11:00]. This contradicts their preconceived notions, leading them to devise tactics to unmask what they believe to be Mila’s true, unpleasant nature.
Acting Out and Emotional Conflict: Brie describes their attempts to provoke Mila: “We decide as soon as she gets out of the car, we decide we're gonna tear her persona down” [13:00]. A pivotal moment occurs when they engage in what they believe is a cult-like ritual by the fire pit, only to have Mila unexpectedly join in, revealing her authentic self: “She jumps in, she starts dancing, she starts making noises” [14:10].
Realization and Reconciliation: After realizing that Mila is genuinely kind and not the evil stepmother they imagined, Brie undergoes a transformation. She reflects, “I also realized that in the end, I was the one being the evil stepchild” [15:20]. This epiphany leads to a mature reconciliation two years later, where Brie embraces Mila: “I started high school. That makes me mature. And I decide that I'm gonna let it go” [14:50].
Quotes:
- “Cinderella was one of my top 10 movies. And my least favorite character, as I'm pretty sure everyone's was, was the stepmother because she was mean.” – Brie Mann-Hernandez [09:33]
- “We decide we're gonna tear her Persona down. We're gonna prove that she's being fake.” – Brie Mann-Hernandez [12:30]
- “She jumps in, she starts dancing, she starts making noises.” – Brie Mann-Hernandez [14:10]
- “I also realized that in the end, I was the one being the evil stepchild.” – Brie Mann-Hernandez [15:20]
Host Commentary on Brie’s Story
Alfonso and D'Avione commend Brie for her heartfelt and introspective storytelling. They discuss the theme of family dynamics and the courage it takes to overcome ingrained fears and misconceptions. The hosts highlight how Brie's story exemplifies personal growth and the importance of seeing beyond initial judgments to understand and embrace loved ones.
Conclusion and Reflections
The hosts reflect on the power of storytelling within their educational program, emphasizing how sharing personal stories fosters deeper connections among students. Alfonso notes, “everybody has their own slice of life” [16:18], underscoring the diversity of experiences and the universal emotions that bind individuals together. D'Avione adds, “Walk in as strangers and walk out as friends” [17:28], suggesting that storytelling acts as a bridge between people, allowing them to empathize and relate to one another's journeys.
Final Remarks: Alfonso and D'Avione wrap up the episode by expressing gratitude to the listeners and each other, hinting humorously at returning the hosting reins to Dan Kennedy in future episodes. They encourage listeners to continue creating and sharing their own stories, fostering a community of mutual understanding and support.
Production Credits:
- Podcast Production: Mouj Zaidie
- Assistance: Kathryn McCarthy, Michaela Bly, and Kali Thuma
- Recording: Argo Studios, supervised by Paul Ruiz
- Presented by: PRX (Public Radio Exchange)
Closing Advertisement: The episode concludes with a Rosetta Stone advertisement, promoting their language learning program with a special offer for The Moth listeners.
This episode of The Moth beautifully illustrates the transformative power of storytelling, showcasing how personal narratives can lead to self-discovery, healing, and stronger interpersonal connections. Through Dante’s tale of breaking free from self-imposed limitations and Brie’s journey of redefining familial relationships, listeners are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of embracing one's true self.