Summary of "Kimya Dawson: Mariah in the Haunted Forest" – The Moth Podcast

Episode Title: Kimya Dawson: Mariah in the Haunted Forest
Host: The Moth
Release Date: October 25, 2010
Recording Location: Players Club, New York, 2002
Theme: Rock and Roll Saved My Life – Tales of Hits and Misses

Introduction

In this episode of The Moth, singer-songwriter Kimya Dawson shares a humorous and enlightening true story from her past, intertwining her experiences with music, personal growth, and an unexpected encounter involving the pop icon Mariah Carey.

Setting the Stage: The Moldy Peaches' Tour Plans

[02:34] Kimya begins by recounting the anticipation and nervousness surrounding her band, The Moldy Peaches', upcoming US and Canada tour. Despite initial fears about leaving home and potential border complications, the band decides to embark on the journey, unaware of the challenges that lie ahead.

“We were a little nervous about going. We were a little nervous about leaving home, but we decided that we would do the trip anyway.” [02:45]

The Border Incident: A Misunderstanding

Upon reaching the Canadian border in Montreal, Kimya and her band encounter unexpected scrutiny. While waiting with their tour manager, two customs officers single her out for questioning.

[04:10]

“They think I'm a terrorist. You know, I'm the only brown person in the group.” [04:15]

The officers interrogate her about her whereabouts in October 1996, leading Kimya to reflect on her past missteps, including a DUI incident and her rebellious college days.

“I'm trying to remember back to 96... And I was just like, what could I have done wrong, you know, that they're pulling me aside for?” [06:20]

Flashback: The Haunted House Experience

Kimya delves into her past, recalling a job she held in October 1996 at a haunted house exhibit. Contrary to her initial portrayal, the "haunted house" was merely a setup of tractor trailers with mesh tarps, designed to scare visitors through simple tricks.

[07:30]

“I worked in the haunted maze behind the haunted house... I had to stand in a corner with, like, a black hooded sweatshirt on and zombie makeup.” [07:45]

Her role involved scaring unsuspecting visitors by jumping out and creating startling moments. One night, under her boss's orders, she was instructed to give a particularly memorable scare to an upcoming group featuring Mariah Carey.

The Mariah Carey Encounter: A Legendary Scare

Kimya describes the tension and excitement of performing her role to a disguised Mariah Carey and her friends. Instead of the usual scare tactics, Kimya confronts Mariah directly, challenging her demeanor and making a bold statement about self-worth and confidence.

[08:50]

“I was yelling at every girl that had ever made another girl feel bad.” [09:10]

The encounter escalates when Mariah reacts violently, leaving Kimya to face the consequences of her actions at the border.

Resolution: Facing the Past and Its Consequences

Back at the customs office, Kimya explains her actions to the officer, revealing that her past DUI (classified as a felony in Canada) was the actual reason for the scrutiny. Despite her arguments and reflections on self-improvement, she is required to pay a $250 fee to cross the border.

[09:50]

“If the tables had been turned that night... maybe I would have lost my fucking mind. So I'm not saying that I'm responsible for her going crazy, but if I was, that'd be pretty fucking cool.” [10:10]

Reflections and Takeaways

Kimya concludes her story by contemplating the impact of her actions and the importance of personal growth. She acknowledges her past mistakes but also highlights how these experiences have shaped her into a more responsible and introspective individual.

“I haven't had a drink in years because I felt so bad, but I paid it anyway because it's $250.” [10:30]

Conclusion

Kimya Dawson's tale is a blend of humor, self-deprecation, and sincere reflection. Through her storytelling, she invites listeners to consider the complexities of personal growth, the lasting effects of past actions, and the unpredictable nature of life's journeys.

Notable Quotes:

• Kimya Dawson [02:45]: “We were a little nervous about going. We were a little nervous about leaving home, but we decided that we would do the trip anyway.”

• Kimya Dawson [04:15]: “They think I'm a terrorist. You know, I'm the only brown person in the group.”

• Kimya Dawson [06:20]: “I'm trying to remember back to 96... And I was just like, what could I have done wrong, you know, that they're pulling me aside for?”

• Kimya Dawson [08:50]: “I was yelling at every girl that had ever made another girl feel bad.”

• Kimya Dawson [10:10]: “So I'm not saying that I'm responsible for her going crazy, but if I was, that'd be pretty fucking cool.”

This episode offers a candid glimpse into Kimya Dawson's life, blending personal anecdotes with broader reflections on accountability and growth. It's a testament to The Moth's mission of sharing authentic, impactful stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.