The Moth Podcast: "The Motor City That Never Sleeps: Isabelle Raphael & Michelle Robertson"

Episode Overview Released on May 17, 2019, this episode of The Moth features two compelling true stories from Isabelle Raphael and Michelle Robertson. Hosted by Dan Kennedy and Dame Wilburn, the episode delves into themes of resilience in bustling urban settings and complex familial relationships. Both storytellers share personal experiences that resonate with listeners, enriched by the hosts' insightful commentary and shared reflections.

1. Hosts' Introduction and Storytelling Do's and Don'ts

Dan Kennedy and Dame Wilburn kick off the episode by introducing themselves and outlining their roles as co-hosts. They emphasize the importance of storytelling structure, highlighting the essential do's and don’ts for narrating a compelling tale.

• Dan Kennedy (02:12): "We always save some of the do's and don'ts of telling a story."

• Dame Wilburn (02:29): "This is one of those shows where we're going to be working together and it's all about our open mic slam series."

They share anecdotes illustrating storytelling pitfalls, such as a performer who failed to deliver a coherent narrative, reinforcing the significance of having a clear beginning, middle, and end.

2. Isabelle Raphael's Story: "Lost in New York"

Isabelle Raphael, a New York-based creative director originally from Australia, recounts her harrowing experience of feeling utterly lost in the city during a summer in 2011.

Key Points:

• Setting the Scene: Isabelle moves to New York with no job, friends, or clear direction, leading to feelings of isolation.

• The Incident: While returning from the laundry department, she inadvertently drops her keys down the elevator shaft, leaving her stranded without essential items in the scorching summer heat.

• The Struggle: Faced with no phone, wallet, or shoes, Isabelle contemplates her dire situation, symbolizing her profound sense of vulnerability in the city.

• The Homeless Man's Help: A homeless man offers to retrieve her keys but only if Isabelle allows him to piggyback her back to her apartment due to her inability to walk shoeless.

• Resolution and Reflection: Despite initial embarrassment and discomfort, Isabelle regains her belongings with the man's assistance, who leaves her a thoughtful gift and a note for future instances.

Notable Quotes:

• Isabelle Raphael (04:43): "I had no wallet, no phone, no keys. I don't know anyone. I had met a very nice girl on the plane, but I didn't know her number by heart."

• Isabelle Raphael (06:59): "A homeless man kind of shuffled along next to me and, like, whispered in my ear, 'You're gonna regret this.'"

• Isabelle Raphael (09:52): "For next time, time."

3. Hosts' Discussion on Isabelle's Story

Post-story, Dan Kennedy and Dame Wilburn reflect on Isabelle’s experience, highlighting the unique blend of New York’s harshness and its underlying warmth.

• Dan Kennedy (10:03): "What I love about Isabel's story is... New York moth crowds will just wait patiently or even better, start applauding."

• Dame Wilburn (10:34): "It is a New York moment... people stop and say, 'Your skirt's on the ground.'"

The hosts appreciate Isabelle’s portrayal of New York’s candidness and the unexpected kindness found amidst the city's relentless pace.

4. Michelle Robertson's Story: "Family Competition"

Michelle Robertson shares an intimate narrative about growing up in a divided family where favoritism and contrasting parental personalities fostered deep-seated sibling rivalry.

Key Points:

• Family Dynamics: As the eldest of four sisters, Michelle experienced favoritism from different parents—her mother favored her sister Rebecca, while her father favored her.

• Childhood Experiences: This division led to distinct upbringings, with Michelle spending time engaging in her father’s interests like drinking and rodeo, contrasting with Rebecca’s experiences with their mother.

• Escalating Tensions: The lack of common ground between parents heightened animosity between Michelle and Rebecca, transforming their relationship into one of fierce competition rather than typical sibling camaraderie.

• The Divorce Revelation: Unexpectedly learning about her parents' divorce ignites a profound emotional response. Michelle’s attempt to reconnect with Rebecca post-divorce leads to a heartfelt conversation that finally bridges the gap between them.

• Emotional Resolution: The story culminates in mutual understanding and the realization that rivalry was unnecessary, allowing Michelle and Rebecca to rebuild their sisterly bond.

Notable Quotes:

• Michelle Robertson (11:48): "We did not do each other's hair or makeup or talk about boys. Like, we did not. We hated each other."

• Michelle Robertson (17:XX): "I realized that there didn't have to be a competition and that she wasn't my opponent. And for the first time, I was just talking to my sister."

5. Hosts' Discussion on Michelle's Story

The hosts commend Michelle’s vulnerability in addressing familial conflicts and the arduous journey toward reconciliation.

• Dame Wilburn (18:10): "What I love about Michelle's story is that she doesn't shy away from the idea of the parents saying this kid's going to go better with how I live my life."

• Dan Kennedy (19:08): "The dad is literally like, hey, all right, so I like beer, smokes and four wheelers. Who's with me?"

They discuss the complexities of parental favoritism and its long-term impact on sibling relationships, appreciating Michelle’s candid storytelling.

6. Closing Remarks

Dan Kennedy and Dame Wilburn wrap up the episode by celebrating the storytellers' courage in sharing their personal journeys. They extend gratitude to Isabelle and Michelle for their impactful narratives and encourage listeners to seek out additional content and photos on The Moth website.

• Dan Kennedy (19:57): "We'll be back again soon with some more news stories here on the Moth Podcast. Until then, from all of us here, myself and from Dame, have a story worthy week."

Additional Information

• Isabelle Raphael: A creative director from Australia, now based in New York, who ventured into storytelling after sharing her experiences with friends.

• Michelle Robertson: A multifaceted individual balancing roles as a wife, sister, mother, and foster parent, actively involved in nonprofit leadership in Detroit.

For more stories and to view photos of the storytellers and their families, visit The Moth's website.