The Moth Radio Hour: REM, Car Wrecks, and the Circus Released September 6, 2016

Introduction Hosted by Kathryn Burns, this episode of The Moth Radio Hour centers around the theme of "trouble"—those unexpected moments that can drastically alter our lives. Through three compelling true stories, listeners are taken on a journey through personal mishaps, life-altering accidents, and cross-cultural adventures.

1. "REM, Car Wrecks" by Gordon Edelstein

Overview Gordon Edelstein, a theater director from New Haven, Connecticut, shares a harrowing experience that intertwines his passion for theater with an unexpected encounter with Peter Buck, the guitarist of the iconic rock band R.E.M.

Key Points

• Chance Encounter: At a theater benefit in Seattle, Gordon meets Peter Buck. Their shared interest in theater leads to a promising collaboration where Peter agrees to compose music for Gordon's play.

  Gordon Edelstein (02:18): “I introduced myself to Peter Buck, and we started talking about Eugene O'Neill and Tennessee Williams. It was a surprisingly stimulating conversation.”

• The Ambien Incident: As their collaboration progresses, Peter Buck becomes overwhelmed and exhausted due to his rigorous schedule. Gordon, struggling with his own jet lag, offers Peter Ambien—prescription sleep medication—to help him cope.

  Gordon Edelstein (05:00): “I gave Peter a couple of tabs of Ambien to help him sleep.”

• Consequences Unfold: After taking the Ambien, Peter Buck experiences a severe reaction, leading to erratic behavior on a flight to London. He accidentally causes a disturbance by knocking over a food cart, resulting in his arrest.

  Gordon Edelstein (09:99): “Peter got arrested after knocking over the food cart on the plane. He didn't know what happened because of the Ambien I gave him.”

• Legal Battle and Redemption: Faced with Peter's potential three-year jail sentence, Gordon feels immense guilt. He testifies in court, presenting the Ambien bottle as evidence. The court eventually acquits Peter, recognizing that his actions were drug-induced, not due to intoxication from alcohol.

  Gordon Edelstein (11:37): “I took out the bottle of Ambien, and the jury started examining it like it was an Uzi. But it proved that Peter wasn’t drunk; he was reacting to the drugs.”

• Aftermath: Peter Buck ensures Gordon is compensated for his role, providing VIP passes and backstage access as a gesture of gratitude. Gordon reflects on the incident with mixed feelings of relief and lingering guilt.

  Gordon Edelstein (15:23): “Peter got off. I feel so relieved and grateful.”

Notable Quotes

• "I gave you those pills and that's what messed you up." — Peter Buck to Gordon Edelstein (09:47)
• "If you ever believed in freedom, believe in it now." — Associate Artistic Director during the circus incident (35:14)

2. "Padma Lakshmi’s Scarlet Scar" by Padma Lakshmi

Overview Padma Lakshmi, renowned host of Top Chef and author, recounts a traumatic car accident from her adolescence that left her with a lasting scar and deep psychological scars about her safety and body image.

Key Points

• Illness and Hospitalization: At 14, Padma is diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson syndrome after a prolonged illness. Her mother makes a vow to offer thanks at a temple if Padma survives.

  Padma Lakshmi (19:12): “My mother moved into the hospital to be by my bedside and wouldn't leave.”

• The Fateful Journey: As they drive to the temple to fulfill the promise, Padma experiences a sudden and severe car crash, resulting in multiple injuries and rendering her unable to move her arm.

  Padma Lakshmi (25:45): “Suddenly I heard a loud bang. The plate flew, and we were airborne.”

• Recovery and Coping with the Scar: The accident leaves Padma with a prominent scar on her forearm. Throughout her recovery, she grapples with body image issues and the stigma associated with her visible injury.

  Padma Lakshmi (34:09): “I knew what was to come with this scar. I found ways to look normal while hiding it.”

• Turning Adversity into Strength: Despite initial insecurities, Padma leverages her scar to build a successful modeling career, transforming what she once saw as a blemish into a symbol of strength and uniqueness.

  Padma Lakshmi (39:00): “It paid off my college loans, bought me an apartment, paid off my mom's mortgage. Maybe the scar was a mixed blessing.”

• Later Life Challenges: Years later, Padma faces another health scare during pregnancy, mirroring her past trauma. With her mother's unwavering support, she navigates this difficult period, showcasing resilience and the enduring bond between mother and daughter.

Notable Quotes

• "I can remember the plate flying and yellow rice everywhere like confetti." — Padma Lakshmi (24:30)
• "It's amazing that somebody else thinking you're cool can make you think differently of yourself." — Padma Lakshmi on embracing her scar (39:00)

3. "The Big Apple Circus and the Chinese Acrobats" by Paul Binder

Overview Paul Binder, founder of the Big Apple Circus, narrates his efforts to bridge cultural divides during the Cold War by inviting a troupe of Chinese acrobats to perform in America—a move fraught with political tension and unforeseen challenges.

Key Points

• Initiating Cultural Exchange: Inspired by his grandmother's wisdom, Paul seeks to bring an entire Chinese acrobatic troupe to the Big Apple Circus, aiming to create a unique show titled "Big Apple Circus Meets the Monkey King."

  Paul Binder (36:11): “One of my dreams was to be the first circus in America to feature acts from China.”

• Navigating Cold War Tensions: During a period of strained US-China relations, Paul negotiates with the China Performing Arts Agency to secure visas for Chinese artists, overcoming bureaucratic obstacles to make the collaboration possible.

  Paul Binder (35:14): “Relations between the US and the People's Republic of China were a bit chilly.”

• Cultural Shock and Adaptation: Upon arrival in New York, the Chinese acrobats face significant culture shock but gradually adapt to their new environment, contributing to the circus's success at Lincoln Center.

  Paul Binder (36:11): “They adapted wonderfully. The Big Apple Circus meets the Monkey King was an enormous success.”

• Political Unrest and Crisis: As democracy protests escalate in China, tensions rise. During a tour stop in Vermont, key members of the Chinese troupe disappear, leading to accusations against their interpreter and a tense confrontation with the Chinese consulate.

  Paul Binder (45:00): “Four acrobats from the troupe disappeared into the night, and chaos ensued.”

• Resolving the Conflict: Paul intervenes to protect the interpreter, defusing the situation and ensuring her safety. The incident underscores his commitment to freedom and cultural exchange, echoing his family's history of seeking liberty.

  Paul Binder (50:44): “If you ever believed in freedom, believe in it now.”

• Enduring Relationships: Despite the turmoil, the affected acrobats eventually find their paths, with Paul expressing unwavering support and a willingness to repeat his actions to uphold freedom and cultural harmony.

  Paul Binder (51:56): “If it hadn't been for their intimidation, there were people from the Chinese consulate waiting for them. But I would do it again.”

Notable Quotes

• "If good fortune knocks on the door, invite her in, give her a seat at the table." — Paul Binder on his grandmother's advice (36:11)
• "These people wanted their freedom. What was I supposed to do?" — Paul Binder reflecting on his actions (49:30)

Conclusion This episode of The Moth Radio Hour masterfully weaves three distinct narratives, each exploring the sudden and often uncontrollable shifts that redirect the course of lives. From Gordon Edelstein's unintended consequences of helping a friend, Padma Lakshmi's journey through trauma and acceptance, to Paul Binder's courageous efforts in cultural diplomacy, each story underscores the fragility and resilience of the human experience.

Final Note The Moth emphasizes the importance of sharing real, true stories to foster a deeper understanding among strangers. This episode, through its diverse tales, highlights how unexpected events can lead to profound personal growth and lasting change.

Notable Production Credits

• Host/Director: Kathryn Burns
• Storytellers: Gordon Edelstein, Padma Lakshmi, Paul Binder
• Production Team: Sarah Haberman, Sarah Austin, Janess, Jennifer Hickson, Meg Bowles
• Recording Services: Argo Studios, New York City
• Theme Music: The Drift
• Additional Music: REM, Rudresh Mahantipa, Imogen Heap

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