The Moth Radio Hour: "Our Parents, Ourselves"
Release Date: August 12, 2025
Host: Jay Allison
Introduction
In this heartfelt episode of The Moth Radio Hour, host Jay Allison delves into the evolving dynamics of parent-child relationships. Through a series of poignant and humorous true stories, listeners explore how perceptions of parents transform over time, especially in the face of challenges such as illness, loss, and personal growth.
Steve Glickman: Balancing Care and Personal Well-being
Timestamp: 03:12 – 09:50
Steve Glickman shares his experience of moving back in with his aging parents to care for his father, who is battling dementia. The initial challenges of living with his parents' declining health are juxtaposed with moments of unexpected humor and realization.
Notable Quote:
"It's impressive, right? A little envious actually. Mark and I don't have sex every day, not even close. And we're gay men. My dad is 90, so in context, it's not all that surprising."
— Steve Glickman [07:25]
Steve narrates the complexities of his parents' relationship, highlighting his mother's struggle with accepting her husband's condition. The turning point comes when he hires a caretaker, Kelsey, who not only aids his parents but also allows Steve to reclaim his life. This act of ensuring his parents remain together underscores the deep-seated bonds and the sacrifices involved in caregiving.
Salonie Singh: Seeking Closure with a Distant Father
Timestamp: 11:10 – 15:37
Salonie Singh recounts the emotional aftermath of her estranged father's death and her quest for closure. Having severed ties with her abusive father a decade prior, Salonie grapples with unresolved feelings and the yearning for his final words.
Notable Quote:
"I choose to believe that dad wrote that email. I choose to believe that if I had just made it to the hospital, he'd have made me sit me down by his bed, held my hand, call me Nona, one last time, and said exactly those things he would have, right?"
— Salonie Singh [14:39]
Through an imaginative act of writing an email to her deceased father, Salonie experiences a profound emotional moment where she feels her father's presence, offering the forgiveness and closure she desperately needed. This story beautifully illustrates the human need for reconciliation and the enduring impact of parental relationships.
Samantha Higdon: Unveiling Hidden Strengths in Motherhood
Timestamp: 20:06 – 25:19
Samantha Higdon shares her journey of deepening her relationship with her mother amidst revelations and personal challenges. Initially holding a somewhat superficial connection, Samantha's bond strengthens through mutual understanding and shared vulnerabilities.
Notable Quote:
"Life is far more complicated than that. And there's so much beauty in that complication."
— Samantha Higdon [24:50]
A pivotal moment occurs when Samantha's mother opens up about her own struggles and regrets, mirroring Samantha's own feelings of inadequacy and societal expectations. This honest dialogue allows Samantha to see her mother not just as a caregiver but as an individual with her own complexities, fostering a renewed sense of gratitude and self-acceptance.
Dion Stroder: Making Tough Decisions Amidst Loss
Timestamp: 26:18 – 32:54
Dion Stroder narrates the harrowing experience of making end-of-life decisions for her father during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with her father's severe brain injury, Dion grapples with the emotional burden of choosing to honor his wishes versus her own uncertainty.
Notable Quote:
"A homeless man who looks so much like my dad that it made me stop, stop."
— Dion Stroder [32:00]
Amidst the surreal conditions of hospital protocols during the pandemic, Dion reflects on her father's life, their intermittent connections, and the poignant moments that define their relationship. The decision to remove her father from ventilatory support is depicted as both a painful yet respectful acknowledgment of his desires, highlighting the complexities of familial love and responsibility.
April Salazar: Embracing an Unconventional Family Legacy
Timestamp: 36:27 – 54:03
April Salazar presents a vibrant and unconventional narrative about growing up in a nudist family and the ensuing challenges of adolescence. Her mother's career as a stripper and their open lifestyle creates moments of embarrassment and self-discovery.
Notable Quote:
"You can strip all of that away and what you're left with is heart."
— April Salazar [51:45]
April's story culminates in a Halloween party that exposes her family's unique dynamic to her classmates. Initially mortified, she gradually embraces her mother's openness, realizing the strength and love inherent in their relationship. This revelation not only mends her own insecurities but also fosters a deeper appreciation for her mother's authenticity and sacrifices.
Conclusion
This episode of The Moth Radio Hour intricately weaves stories that underscore the transformative nature of parent-child relationships. From caregiving and reconciliation to understanding and acceptance, each narrative offers a unique perspective on navigating the complexities of familial bonds. The listeners are left with a profound appreciation for the enduring impact parents have on shaping identities and the continuous evolution of these relationships throughout life.
Production Credits
The Moth Radio Hour is produced by Atlantic Public Media in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Special thanks to co-producer Vicki Merrick, associate producer Emily Couch, and director Jennifer Hickson. The episode was supported by contributions from the National Endowment for the Arts and Executive Producer Leah Rees Dennis of Odyssey.
For more stories and information, visit themoth.org.