Summary of “Jack Hitt: Slumlord” – The Moth Podcast Episode

Introduction

In the February 9, 2009 episode of The Moth titled “Jack Hitt: Slumlord,” storyteller Jack Hitt recounts his tumultuous experience securing his first apartment in New York City during the early 1980s. This engaging narrative delves into the complexities of landlord-tenant relationships, the gritty realities of New York housing markets, and unexpected twists involving crime and redemption.

Arriving in New York and the Apartment Hunt [01:48]

Jack Hitt begins his story by describing his move from the South to New York City in the early '80s. He highlights the challenges of finding an apartment during that era, characterized by unconventional and often dubious practices:

“Getting an apartment in 1981... it required that you sort of commit a crime. There was all sorts of subleases and various shady documents...” ([01:48])

Hitt explains the concept of “key money,” a practice where prospective tenants provide a cash payment to secure a lease, often under informal agreements. His friend Kevin informs him about a potential place managed by a superintendent named Bob, advising him to remain cautious.

Meeting Bob the Superintendent [05:30]

Upon meeting Bob, the superintendent, Hitt offers the key money:

“I just popped it on the desk... I seem to have offended him.” ([03:50])

Bob’s enigmatic and intimidating demeanor is evident as he shares a peculiar story involving a reporter:

“I rent my apartments to anybody I want to... one of those reporters...” ([04:10])

Despite the rocky start, Hitt secures the lease and lives in the apartment for ten years, during which he becomes acquainted with both Bob and the landlord, Alan Stern.

Character Dynamics: Bob and Alan [07:15]

Hitt paints vivid portraits of Bob and Alan, contrasting their personalities and management styles. Bob is portrayed as a quirky yet unpredictable superintendent:

“The way he described reality... he owned five ranches in Brazil and two vineyards in Italy.” ([09:00])

Conversely, Alan Stern, the landlord, is depicted as more conventional but ultimately unscrupulous. Alan is involved in a co-op attempt to make profits by purchasing apartments cheaply. However, structural issues in the building prevent success:

“The report on our building said something like a column of dust held up by 125 years of paint.” ([12:45])

Conflict and Tenant Activism [14:30]

Hitt describes tensions between newer tenants and long-time residents, particularly older Puerto Rican grandmothers. Alan’s neglect of these long-term tenants leads Hitt to organize a rent strike:

“I started a rent strike on behalf of these ladies... And Alan and I had very harsh words, but it was all very gentlemanly.” ([16:20])

Their conflict escalates to threats of legal action, which ultimately leads Alan to realize he is losing the battle.

The Unveiling of Alan’s Crimes [20:50]

The turning point occurs when Hitt reads a Daily News headline titled “Terror Landlord,” revealing that Alan Stern orchestrated the murder of his brother-in-law to retain control over the property assets. This shocking revelation exposes the dark lengths Alan went to maintain his holdings.

Bob’s Redemption and the Twist [25:40]

In a surprising twist, Hitt reconnects with Bob, uncovering that Bob was instrumental in turning Alan in to the authorities. A conversation with John Moscow, an assistant Secretary of the Treasury, reveals:

“Bob DeSalvo, my crazy superintendent, may actually have saved my life.” ([35:50])

Bob had been contracted to eliminate tenant activists but chose to betray Alan instead, ensuring both Alan’s downfall and Hitt’s safety.

Conclusion and Reflection [38:00]

Hitt reflects on the ironic outcome where Bob, despite his eccentricities and malpractices, ultimately acts as a safeguard against further criminal activities. This introspection underscores the unpredictable nature of human behavior and the thin line between villainy and heroism.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jack Hitt: “Getting an apartment in 1981... it required that you sort of commit a crime.” ([01:48])
• Jack Hitt: “Let me tell you something, buster. I rent my apartments to anybody I want to.” ([04:10])
• Jack Hitt: “Bob was just the most incompetent guy ever.” ([28:15])
• John Moscow: “Bob DeSalvo was a member of the Brazilian secret police... He killed people, a lot of people.” ([34:40])
• Jack Hitt: “Bob DeSalvo, my crazy superintendent, may actually have saved my life.” ([35:50])

Insights and Themes

Jack Hitt’s story highlights several key themes:

1. The Complexity of Landlord-Tenant Relationships: The intricate dynamics between Bob, Alan, and the tenants showcase the challenges of maintaining and securing housing in a competitive market.

2. Moral Ambiguity: Characters like Bob embody the blurred lines between good and evil, illustrating how individuals can possess both redeeming and reprehensible traits.

3. Impact of Crime on Everyday Lives: The narrative underscores how criminal actions by those in power can have profound and unexpected effects on ordinary people’s lives.

4. Redemption and Unexpected Heroes: Bob’s ultimate decision to betray Alan serves as a testament to the potential for redemption, even in flawed individuals.

Conclusion

“Jack Hitt: Slumlord” is a compelling true story that weaves humor, suspense, and profound life lessons. Through his vivid storytelling, Jack Hitt invites listeners into the chaotic world of 1980s New York housing, delivering a narrative rich with memorable characters and unexpected outcomes. This episode exemplifies The Moth’s commitment to sharing authentic, impactful stories that resonate with diverse audiences.