The Moth Radio Hour: Party Crashers, Witch Hunts and Ninja Costumes
Released on September 17, 2013
Host: Jennifer Hickson & Dan Kennedy

Introduction

In this captivating episode of The Moth Radio Hour, listeners are treated to six compelling Grand Slam stories from various cities across the United States. Hosted by Jennifer Hickson, senior producer of The Moth, and featuring insights from longtime host Dan Kennedy, the episode delves into themes ranging from personal crises and faith to unexpected adventures and resilience. Each story, delivered live and without notes, showcases the raw honesty and vulnerability that The Moth is renowned for.

1. Aaron Potek: Navigating Faith and Identity

Theme: The Deep End
Timestamp: [06:07]

Aaron Potek, an undergraduate rabbi, shares a profound experience where he grappled with reconciling his Orthodox Jewish faith with his personal beliefs about homosexuality. During a college recruitment event, Aaron responded candidly to a challenging question about a specific law, sparking a life-changing interaction with an Orthodox student struggling with his identity.

Notable Quote:
"I don't know that the God that we believe in can be present in a gay relationship just as much as he can be present in a straight relationship."
— Aaron Potek [12:45]

Aaron's honesty led to a meaningful mentorship, reinvigorating his own faith and belief in love, culminating in his ordination as a rabbi.

2. Bonnie Levison: The Cost of Ambition

Theme: Secret Weapons
Timestamp: [13:56]

Bonnie Levison recounts a tense and humorous evening at an Obama inauguration party. Intending to end a strained relationship, Bonnie finds himself inadvertently mingling with high-profile guests, including the Kennedy family, all while dressed in a self-made ninja costume. This unexpected scenario forces him to reconsider his approach to relationships and personal growth.

Notable Quote:
"Maybe I should give this relationship a little more time. Maybe I need to go out on a limb and take some risks."
— Bonnie Levison [19:00]

Despite the ultimate breakup, Bonnie remains friends with his ex, highlighting the complexities of human connections and the unforeseen outcomes of our actions.

3. Matthew Dix: Standing Against False Accusations

Theme: Fall from Grace
Timestamp: [22:38]

Matthew Dix narrates his harrowing experience of being falsely accused of inappropriate behavior as an elementary school teacher. After receiving an anonymous, manipulated packet of his blog posts meant to tarnish his reputation, Matthew faces suspension and public scrutiny. Through resilience and unwavering support from his students and community, he triumphs, proving his innocence and maintaining his passion for teaching.

Notable Quote:
"Every time I place a word on the page, I wonder what might happen to it and what an anonymous person might do to twist it and ruin me."
— Matthew Dix [28:28]

Matthew's story is a testament to integrity and the impact of community support in overcoming adversity.

4. Horace H.B. Sanders: Childhood Creativity and Humiliation

Theme: Fish Out of Water
Timestamp: [30:12]

Horace H.B. Sanders reflects on his 12-year-old self's attempt to create a ninja costume for a neighborhood party. Limited resources and creativity lead to a costume that, while ambitious, becomes a source of embarrassment when his efforts are publicly mocked. This story underscores the challenges of youthful ingenuity and the sting of public humiliation.

Notable Quote:
"Maybe I should go out on a limb and take some risks. Maybe I need to change."
— Horace H.B. Sanders [33:27]

Despite the awkwardness, Horace's perseverance shines through, illustrating the importance of effort over perfection.

5. Cole Kadzen: Celebrating Friendship in Loss

Theme: Secret Weapons
Timestamp: [38:09]

Cole Kadzen shares an emotional journey of stepping into the role of a celebrant for her friend Joe's memorial service. Initially unsure and facing tension with Father Bob, the hospice chaplain, Cole orchestrates a heartfelt tribute centered around Joe's love for theatrical productions. The memorial becomes a unifying moment for the community, blending laughter, tears, and shared memories in a celebration of life.

Notable Quote:
"I started the music, and everyone sang, danced, and swayed to 'Under the Sea,' making it a perfect tribute."
— Cole Kadzen [44:35]

Cole's innovative approach transforms grief into a joyous remembrance, highlighting the power of creativity in healing.

6. Scott Holz: Finding Purpose in Kenya

Theme: Fish Out of Water
Timestamp: [45:27]

Scott Holz details his period of personal disorientation and subsequent decision to volunteer in a Kenyan orphanage amidst political turmoil. Assigned to help a severely injured boy named Dume, Scott confronts the harsh realities of poverty and illness. Through this experience, he forms a deep emotional connection with Dume, reaffirming his sense of purpose and the profound impact of compassionate action.

Notable Quote:
"I'm still here doing the job that I love."
— Scott Holz [52:23]

Scott's story emphasizes the transformative power of service and human connection in times of crisis.

Grand Slam Champion: Cole Kadzen

At the episode's conclusion, Jennifer Hickson announces Cole Kadzen as the Grand Slam Champion. Cole's ability to blend humor, emotion, and community spirit in her memorial service for Joe earned her the top honor among the six outstanding stories presented.

Notable Moment:
"Look. Look who it is."
— Father Bob [53:01]

This moment underscores the unexpected and powerful connections formed through storytelling.

Conclusion

This episode of The Moth Radio Hour masterfully weaves together diverse narratives that explore the depths of human experience. From confronting societal norms and personal identity to overcoming false accusations and finding purpose in service, each story offers unique insights into resilience, love, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships. The heartfelt delivery and genuine emotions of the storytellers invite listeners to reflect on their own journeys, making this episode a memorable and inspiring listen.

For more stories and to share your own, visit The Moth.