The Moth Radio Hour: "Snakes, Electric Shock and Afghanistan" Release Date: May 21, 2019

Introduction

In the episode titled "Snakes, Electric Shock and Afghanistan," The Moth presents three riveting true stories narrated live before captivated audiences. Hosted by Kathryn Burns, the episode delves into personal journeys marked by adventure, adversity, and profound human experiences. The stories featured include Dan Kennedy's harrowing encounter with snakes in Indonesia, Tom Beaudet's tumultuous relationship with his father and a life-altering accident, and Dori Samadzai Bonner's perilous escape from war-torn Afghanistan.

Story 1: Dan Kennedy – "Snakes, Electric Shock and Afghanistan"

Timestamp: 02:56 – 18:00

Dan Kennedy, a frequent storyteller for The Moth and the longtime host of their podcast, shares an adrenaline-fueled adventure that began with a seemingly mundane conversation. While sipping coffee in a New York café, Kennedy overhears a woman discussing her efforts to "be in the moment." This sparks his irritation, leading to a series of events that thrust him into an unexpected and dangerous scenario.

Kennedy recounts how an editor from a men's magazine proposes sending him to a perilous location to write a humorous piece about herpetologists searching for a world record python. Despite his initial reluctance and fear of snakes, the allure of being more present in the moment convinces him to embark on the journey.

In Indonesia, Kennedy finds himself navigating treacherous terrains infested with cobras and bat-infested caves. A particularly intense moment occurs when he is tasked with handling a massive reticulated python. At one point, he reflects:

"I have met up with the herpetologists and we are traveling in a couple of little vans down a very narrow potholed road... And each room bunker has a single light bulb hanging from a cord in the center of it... trying to get pumped up to be in the moment."
(Kennedy, 12:53)

Despite successfully managing the snake and capturing a memorable photograph, Kennedy's experience leaves him with lasting fears and nightmares. The story culminates with Kennedy receiving a photograph of himself with the python, reinforcing his preference for a stable and controlled life over the unpredictability of such adventures. He concludes with a reflective insight:

"Oh, right. I literally was like, maybe that's all that woman in the café meant by being in the moment."
(Kennedy, 18:00)

Story 2: Tom Beaudet – "Climbing a Pole to Flip the Switch"

Timestamp: 18:58 – 40:06

Tom Beaudet, an author residing in Vermont, narrates a deeply personal story intertwining familial relationships, personal trauma, and redemption. Beaudet begins by sharing his strained relationship with his conservative father, highlighting his rebellious youth aimed at gaining his father’s attention through countercultural expressions.

A pivotal moment in Beaudet's life occurs when he suffers a severe accident while working as a tree planter in Oregon. Falling 30 feet from a pole, he endures life-threatening injuries that force him into a prolonged hospital stay. During his recovery, Beaudet grapples with pain, morphine-induced haze, and complex emotions toward his father, who remains distant and unsupportive.

A turning point comes when Beaudet receives a heartfelt letter from his father’s letter expressing pride and love, offering a glimpse into his father’s vulnerabilities. This revelation fosters a newfound understanding and reconciliation within Beaudet. He reflects:

"One of the earliest and clearest memories of my dad, I was four or five probably, and we were out at a lake swimming... He looked me right in the face and he said, you got to be careful. And he let me go and I was all right after that."
(Beaudet, 37:27)

Beaudet describes his journey towards healing, both physically and emotionally, culminating in a transformative trip to Alaska. This adventure symbolizes his courage and the newfound strength derived from reconciling with his past. He poignantly concludes:

"Did you see me, dad? Brave as any soldier. That's what you said. Maybe not, but brave enough."
(Beaudet, 37:27)

Story 3: Dori Samadzai Bonner – "Escape from Afghanistan"

Timestamp: 40:14 – 52:57

Dori Samadzai Bonner shares a harrowing account of her escape from Afghanistan during a tumultuous period marked by war and oppressive societal norms. Born in Kabul, Dori's early life is characterized by the Russian occupation, familial responsibilities, and gender-based restrictions that stifle her freedom and aspirations.

At the age of 10, Dori's life undergoes a drastic upheaval when her father orchestrates a clandestine escape to the United States amid escalating dangers. Accompanied by her older brother, Dori embarks on a treacherous journey that involves trusting smugglers, enduring the uncertainties of refugee life, and surviving near-death experiences.

A particularly tense moment unfolds in Thailand's airport, where Dori and her brother realize they have been abandoned by their smuggler. Faced with the language barrier and the fear of being stranded, they muster courage and resourcefulness to seek help. Dori recounts:

"I have no idea what he's going to do. So one time I asked him what we were waiting for, what was taking so long. Were we going to get to America eventually or not?"
(Bonner, 40:49)

Their eventual arrival in the United States is marked by a mix of relief and overwhelming emotions. The sight of the American flag evokes a profound sense of belonging and gratitude. Dori concludes her story with a heartfelt promise:

"When I finally became a US Citizen and when my family finally became a US Citizen, I did not only pledge allegiance to my new homeland, I also promised myself that until my dying days, I will thank Americans for giving me a place that I can finally call a sanctuary and a home."
(Bonner, 52:57)

Themes and Insights

The episode weaves together themes of courage, transformation, and the quest for identity. Each storyteller navigates personal challenges that force them to confront their fears and redefine their paths:

• Dan Kennedy grapples with the superficial pursuit of being "in the moment" versus seeking genuine fulfillment, ultimately discovering a preference for stability over reckless adventure.

• Tom Beaudet explores the complexities of father-son relationships, personal trauma, and the journey towards reconciliation and self-acceptance.

• Dori Samadzai Bonner embodies resilience and the indomitable human spirit, illustrating the lengths one will go to achieve safety, freedom, and a sense of belonging.

Notable quotes underscore the emotional depth and reflective nature of the stories, providing listeners with profound takeaways about human endurance and the pursuit of self-discovery.

Conclusion

"The Moth Radio Hour: Snakes, Electric Shock and Afghanistan" offers a tapestry of compelling narratives that highlight the diverse experiences shaping individual lives. Through the authentic and vulnerable storytelling of Dan Kennedy, Tom Beaudet, and Dori Samadzai Bonner, the episode invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the universal quest for meaning and connection. Each story, rich in detail and emotion, reaffirms The Moth's commitment to celebrating true, transformative experiences shared in the intimate setting of a live audience.

Further Information

For more stories from this episode, including photographs of the storytellers, visit themoth.org. Share your own experiences or pitch a story by reaching out through their website or calling the pitch line at 877-799-MOTH (6684).