The Moth Podcast: Mindy Nettifee & Scott M Herman – StorySLAM Favorites
Release Date: October 28, 2014

Introduction

Hosted by Dan Kennedy, this episode of The Moth features two captivating stories from the StorySLAM series: Mindy Nettifee from Portland and Scott M. Herman from Seattle. Both storytellers delve into personal experiences that resonate deeply with themes of identity, adversity, and unexpected connections.

Story 1: "A Journey of Identity and Acceptance" by Mindy Nettifee

Portland StorySLAM – Theme: Fish Out of Water

Mindy Nettifee begins her narrative by recounting her early childhood experience when her father came out as gay. At just four years old, Mindy was introduced to the concept of diverse sexual orientations in a straightforward manner:

“Some men loved women and some men loved men, and some women loved men and some women loved women...”
(04:13)

Growing up in a supportive environment, largely due to her mother's activism and protection, Mindy never internalized negative notions about being gay. However, relocating to California in the fourth grade exposed her to a hostile environment. She describes a pivotal moment when her classmates played “AIDS Tag,” a cruel game that equated being gay with having AIDS:

“I ran home crying that day, sobbing because I thought we had moved to the most heartless, evil place in the entire world.”
(07:45)

This incident marked the beginning of Mindy's struggle with self-acceptance. Despite her father's continued role as a pastor and eventual integration into the Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles, Mindy grappled with shame and internalized societal prejudices. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her resilience and outspoken nature:

“I became one of those really outspoken, bratty kids who called everybody out...”
(09:10)

Mindy highlights the significant societal shifts over the past decade, noting the legalization of same-sex marriage in multiple states and the increasing acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. However, she poignantly acknowledges the personal loss and lingering sadness over her father's inability to live freely in a more accepting world:

“Whenever I meet them, I just burst, you know, with pride and joy. And then it is immediately followed by this wave of profound sadness that my father never got to have that.”
(16:30)

Concluding her story, Mindy contemplates her place in the world, balancing feelings of belonging with existential reflections:

“Maybe we all do belong, because here we are. Maybe it's that simple.”
(19:05)

Host’s Note on Mindy Nettifee

Dan Kennedy introduces Mindy as a writer residing in Portland, Oregon. She serves as one of the hosts there, produces for Backfence PDX, performs monthly at the New Shit Show, and is the author of "Glitter in the Blood," a collection of essays on writing.

Story 2: "Unintended Adventures in Ireland" by Scott M. Herman

Seattle StorySLAM – Theme: Unintended

Scott M. Herman shares an adventurous yet unintended escapade from his senior year of college while studying theater in Dublin, Ireland. Eager to explore, Scott decides to climb Mount Arigal during a long weekend before Halloween. However, his plans quickly unravel:

“I had a backpack, I had a borrowed tent, and I had a steadfast determination. And I had zero idea of what I was doing.”
(12:29)

After a lengthy bus ride, Scott arrives in the small village of Dunlooie, only to find the backpacking hostel closed for the season. Left without shelter or guidance, he resorts to camping along the precarious mountain path, battling harsh weather conditions:

“My boots were caked in mud, my pants were absolutely soaked, and the wind had blown away any hopes of camping for the night.”
(15:50)

Realizing the futility of his situation, Scott makes his way to Bunbeg, the nearest town with regular bus service. Exhausted and disheartened, he seeks solace in the local pub, expecting the stereotypical lively Irish atmosphere. Instead, he encounters a quiet, unassuming establishment with primarily elderly patrons:

“I was the most interesting thing happening in town that night, apparently.”
(16:40)

Despite initial discomfort, Scott gradually connects with the locals over pints of Guinness. The genuine warmth and storytelling of the residents dissolve his reservations, turning a failed mountain climb into a cherished memory:

“Through my idiotic and random series of missteps, I actually had had one of the most memorable experiences I would have in Ireland.”
(18:15)

Scott’s story underscores the unpredictability of travel and the beauty of human connections forged in unexpected circumstances.

Host’s Note on Scott M. Herman

Dan Kennedy presents Scott M. Herman as a playwright and storyteller based in Seattle. His works have graced stages nationwide, and he currently co-edits Lowercase Lit, an online magazine dedicated to literary nonfiction.

Conclusion

Dan Kennedy wraps up the episode by mentioning upcoming events and expressing gratitude to sponsors like Squarespace. He also highlights the return of The Moth’s main stage to Santa Barbara, inviting listeners to participate in future live storytelling experiences.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mindy Nettifee:
  “Some men loved women and some men loved men, and some women loved men and some women loved women...” (04:13)

• Mindy Nettifee:
  “I ran home crying that day, sobbing because I thought we had moved to the most heartless, evil place in the entire world.” (07:45)

• Mindy Nettifee:
  “I became one of those really outspoken, bratty kids who called everybody out...” (09:10)

• Mindy Nettifee:
  “Maybe we all do belong, because here we are. Maybe it's that simple.” (19:05)

• Scott M. Herman:
  “I had a backpack, I had a borrowed tent, and I had a steadfast determination. And I had zero idea of what I was doing.” (12:29)

• Scott M. Herman:
  “My boots were caked in mud, my pants were absolutely soaked, and the wind had blown away any hopes of camping for the night.” (15:50)

• Scott M. Herman:
  “I was the most interesting thing happening in town that night, apparently.” (16:40)

• Scott M. Herman:
  “Through my idiotic and random series of missteps, I actually had had one of the most memorable experiences I would have in Ireland.” (18:15)

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Moth showcases the profound impact of personal stories in fostering understanding and empathy. Mindy and Scott’s narratives illustrate how challenges and unintended detours can lead to deep self-discovery and meaningful connections with others. Their experiences invite listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the unforeseen moments that shape our lives.