The Moth Podcast Episode: Sherman Powell & Richie DeSalvo Release Date: March 29, 2016

The Moth brings listeners captivating true stories told live without notes. In this episode, host Sherman O.T. Powell presents two compelling narratives from Richie DeSalvo, showcasing vastly different yet equally intriguing journeys. Below is a detailed summary capturing the essence of both stories, enriched with notable quotes and structured for clarity.

1. The Rise and Fall of a Pickpocket: Sherman O.T. Powell

Background and Early Life Sherman O.T. Powell, portrayed by Richie DeSalvo, shares his tumultuous journey from a troubled youth to a seasoned pickpocket. Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Sherman grapples with his aspirations and finds himself enamored by the flashy lifestyle of seasoned criminals.

Entry into Pickpocketing At around 15 years old, Sherman begins working for a group of vibrant and affluent individuals, admiring their wealth and style. This admiration fuels his desire to adopt their way of life, leading him to seek mentorship in the art of pickpocketing.

Training and Mastery Under the tutelage of a somewhat inexperienced mentor, Sherman learns the basics of pickpocketing. He practices diligently, honing his skills with various disguises and techniques to evade capture. Sherman recounts:

"If you think that you was that good, take your ass to New York. If you can do it in New York, you can do it anywhere."
[06:45]

This advice propels Sherman to New York City, where he immerses himself in the bustling environment of Grand Central Station, perfecting his craft amidst the chaos.

Climax: The Big Bust Despite his refined skills, Sherman faces inevitable challenges. His meticulous approach eventually attracts police attention, culminating in a tense encounter on a crowded bus. As Sherman recounts the confrontation:

"My head was about to come through my chest because I knew he was just going to do that."
[11:55]

In a twist of fate, the police let Sherman go after finding no evidence, highlighting the fragile line between success and failure in his illicit endeavors.

Redemption and Transformation Sherman's narrative takes a turn as personal struggles with health, substance abuse, and legal threats push him towards change. Influenced by a stern judge's ultimatum, Sherman decides to leave his life of crime. He shares his path to sobriety and newfound purpose:

"I'm studying now to be a home care attendant, you know, and I go to church every Sunday."
[12:50]

2. From Crime to Culinary Success: Richie DeSalvo's Pizza Dream

Unexpected Opportunity Richie DeSalvo transitions from his earlier life into entrepreneurship with a serendipitous opportunity. After working for a figure named Anthony, Richie is unexpectedly handed ownership of a pizzeria. Reflecting on the moment, he describes the overwhelming generosity:

"Anthony, this is my dream. This is my dream working many, many years."
[17:10]

Building the Dream Determined to make the most of this chance, Richie meticulously transforms the pizzeria into DeSalvo's Pizza, Home of the Baby Calzone. His attention to detail and innovative offering set his business apart in Brooklyn:

"I put fresh flowers in the antique Coke bottles every day. Give it a nice, homey look for the ladies and the kids."
[19:30]

Facing Challenges Despite initial success, Richie encounters financial pressures and the looming threat of Anthony's associates demanding money. The strain leads to confrontations and near-violent encounters, testing his resolve and business acumen.

Stand Against Crime and Perseverance Choosing integrity over fear, Richie decides to shut down the store rather than succumb to extortion. This pivotal decision marks his commitment to honest work, culminating in personal growth and reaffirmation of his values:

"If I want to make money, I'll do it how I was raised to. That's work hard, do it yourself."
[25:00]

Richie's story emphasizes the importance of perseverance, ethical entrepreneurship, and the strength to overcome adversity.

Conclusion

In this episode, The Moth masterfully juxtaposes two lives intertwined by past misdeeds and the quest for redemption. Sherman O.T. Powell's tale of transformation from a pickpocket to a reformed individual parallels Richie DeSalvo's journey from the shadows of crime to the bright lights of successful entrepreneurship. Both stories underscore the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of change against all odds.

Notable Quotes:

• "I didn't stop picking pocket by choice. It was due to a deterioration of my health and too much of cocaine and alcohol..."
  — Sherman O.T. Powell [12:30]

• "It's a free country. Do you understand what I'm saying?"
  — Sherman O.T. Powell [11:45]

• "This is just my dream. I buy neon. The business is going good."
  — Richie DeSalvo [18:25]

• "Hard work in America will do the trick."
  — Richie DeSalvo [25:50]

Production Credits:

• Host: Sherman O.T. Powell
• Storyteller: Richie DeSalvo
• Producer: Mooj Zaidy
• Recording Location: Argo Studios, New York City
• Presented by: PRX, the Public Radio Exchange

The Moth continues to deliver heartfelt and authentic stories, reminding us of the diverse experiences that shape our lives.