Chase the storm until it chases you. Tornadoes! They don’t look like they do in the movies. When you’re in the path of one, all you’ll see is a wall of black wind. This week, Snap is heading directly into the monster’s maw to chase storms that should be left alone.

Big thanks to Craig Wolter! Thank you, Windom High School... especially Sarah, Benny, and Danielle. Crystal Frank, another student on the trip, shared her home video with us. This story would not have been possible without her.

Many thanks also to Sue, for sharing your story with us. Sue’s memoir is titled The Lake Turned Upside Down. 

Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

If you listened to our radio broadcast and want to find out what happened to the 24 people that shut themselves in a beer cooler to wait out one of the strongest tornadoes in recorded history, you can listen to the full length version of the "Eye of the Storm" story here. 

Season 15 - Episode 38

Amateur treasure hunters race to uncover $100,000 in gold and silver after a man buries his entire jewelry store around the state of Michigan. Hunters are given clues and left to explore the woods.

This episode contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

BIG thanks to Johnny & everyone out on the hunt for sharing your story with us! Learn more about Johnny and his treasure quest on his website and Facebook.

Produced by Will McCarthy, original score by Derek Barber, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic Season 15 – Episode 37

Do you remember the moment you saw your first love? Rodney Hines sure does. He was 13 years old, and it was the 4th of July. His parents took him to their friends’ house where he saw Shani Browning. For the next two decades, their lives each resembled a rollercoaster ride with dramatic ups and downs.

One day on the yard at Solano State Prison, Hines was recounting the details of how the relationship with his childhood crush transformed into a tragic love affair. Uncuffed producer Anthony Ivy realized he needed to get Hines into the studio to tell his story.

Produced by Anthony Ivy with help from Andrew Stelzer, Sonia Paul, Kathy Novak, Angela Johnston, Ninna Gaensler-Debs, and sound designer Eric 'Maserati-E 'Abercrombie.

This story, Hole In The Heart: A Love Stronger Than Prison Walls originally aired on Uncuffed. Uncuffed is KALW's award-winning radio training program and podcast in California prisons. Listen on any podcast platform! 

Season 15 - Episode 28

It’s time people. We all need to push the chair back from the supper table, look around and remember who we are grateful for. This week on Snap, when a pillar of the community goes missing, the people rally to show their love. But maybe our hero... is still alive?

We are grateful to tell stories and we are deeply thankful for you Snap Nation! For all the love and support you have shown our Snap Fam, thank you. We’re sending good vibes to you and yours!

Thanks to, Tammerlin Drummond, for helping tell Willie’s story. Rest in Power Willie!

Produced by Adizah Eghan, additional tape from Bo Walsh

Original score by Renzo Gorrio, additional music from Doug Stuart

Video used in story provided by user ritchhazel on YouTube.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 58

Dante is just looking for a haircut in Guadalajara and then he meets Jorge. He's always wanted to meet a trans person… older than him. But once they start talking, Dante can't believe his ears.

This episode contains sexual references, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you, Dante and Jorge, for sharing your story!

The Spanish version of this episode is available at CUIR: Historias Disidentes, a non-fiction podcast that showcases stories from the Latinx LGBTQ+ community and from people who challenge the way we think about love, identity, sex and pleasure. You can listen to more CUIR episodes anywhere you listen to podcasts and on the CUIR website: https://estonoesradio.mx/programas/cuir

Jorge was voiced by Terry Holiday, one of the most prominent trans actresses in Mexico. You can read more about Terry in this Vice article (in Spanish).

Produced by Erick Yáñez, edited by Nancy López

Reported by Dante Ureta, original score by Renzo Gorrio

Episode art by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 57

When a young man is told is he going deaf, he sets out on a challenge to memorize the songs that defined his life. He had no idea that those songs would come back to him in the most unexpected way.

Thank you, Matt Hay, for sharing your story! A version of this story aired on KQED’s Q’ed Up.

Produced by April Dembosky

Sound Design by April Dembosky, Leon Morimoto & Renzo Gorrio

Artwork by Mark Fiore

Snap Classic – Season 13 - Episode 56

When Umid Isabaev is trapped behind enemy lines, he gets help… from two of the world’s most dangerous men.

This story contains some strong language. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you, Umid, for sharing your story with Snap!

Thanks to Ethan Herschenfeld who voiced Umid’s words, and to, Mars Lipowski, who was the voice of Steve Poland. BIG thanks as well to our translators for this piece, Muhitdin Ahunhodjaev and Magdalena Balz.

Want more from the Kim Jong Un Look-alike? Check out his Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Trying to hear from the Putin Look-alike? Visit his website.

The three fake heads of state reunited recently in Poland for a magazine photo shoot! We have a link to that photo on our website and it will also be posted on our social media accounts.

Produced by John Fecile & Anne Ford, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 55

Joel Gheen is out of the military, newly married, and in college. His new life is going great… if he could just catch the damn bus.

Thank you, Joel, for sharing your story with us!

If you’re hungry for more details about Joel’s experience with a real-life glitch in the matrix, check out his website. Joel also has a fun podcast that covers weird topics from a Biblical perspective. Listen to hear all the paranormal stuff that never gets discussed from a traditional church pulpit or Bible study.

Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 54

One day, while out landscaping his yard, Moses reaches into the dirt and pulls out a handful of bones. He wants to find out who they belong to. But that might not be such a good idea. Happy Halloween! We’re celebrating with more Spooked! Be afraid…

Thank you, Moses Thompson, for sharing your story with the Spooked! Folks, if you want to know more about Moses and his house, check out this article. 

Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Yari Bundy, artwork by Teo Ducot

Want more Spooked stories crafted in the dark of night? To listen to all episodes of Spooked as they’re released regularly through next Spring, subscribe to the Luminary Channel on Apple Podcasts, or directly on Luminary, https://luminary.link/spooked

Season 13 - Episode 53

Kimberly was expecting a luxurious hotel room. Someone in it… was expecting her. It’s Spooky Season and we are bringing you Spooked tales from the other side of the veil!

BIG thanks to Kimberly and Colin for sharing your story!

Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Doug Stuart, art by Teo Ducot

Want more Spooked? Spooked Season 7 has 26 brand NEW episodes this season! To listen to all episodes of Spooked as they’re released regularly through next Spring, subscribe to the Luminary Channel on Apple Podcasts, or directly on Luminary, https://luminary.link/spooked

Season 13 - Episode 52

It’s March 1980, and best friends Lopaka and Sean decide to ditch class and head to the Pali Lookout, a tourist destination just outside of Honolulu on the island of Oahu. They’re hanging out, taking in the sights… but nothing can prepare them for what happens when they decide to venture off the beaten path. It’s Spooked season, Snap Nation!

Thank you, Lopaka Kapanui, for lifting back the veil with Spooked! If you want more stories about spirits, legends, and the Mysteries of Hawaii, Lopaka’s got you covered.

Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Want more tales of the supernatural, weird, and wonderful? Spooked Season 7 has 26 brand NEW episodes this season! To listen to all episodes of Spooked as they’re released regularly through next Spring, subscribe to the Luminary Channel on Apple Podcasts, or directly on Luminary, https://luminary.link/spooked

Season 13 - Episode 51

Some dolls are pretty, some dolls are nice, some dolls are waiting for you... in the night. Oh, yes! It's time for Spooked.

BIG thanks, Mary, for sharing your story with us!

Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Ella June Pierson, artwork by Teo Ducot

Interested in more tales of the supernatural, weird, and wonderful? Spooked Season 7 is RISEN!!! There are 26 brand NEW Spooked episodes coming for you this season. To listen to all episodes of Spooked as they’re released regularly through next Spring, subscribe to the Luminary Channel on Apple Podcasts, or directly on Luminary, https://luminary.link/spooked

Season 13 - Episode 50

Sir Dyno is the Chicano Eazy-E, the king of lowrider car shows, an up-and-coming gangsta rapper straight outta Northern California. But when he gets the money to finance his next CD, he has no idea that the same music that made him a legend will also lead to his downfall.

This story contains drug references and offensive language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you, David Rocha, for sharing your story with us. Thanks also to Sharon Rocha, Justin Berton & Julia Reynolds.

David Rocha left prison in June 2009. He became a pastor and started a church in Modesto called House of Rest.

Produced by John Fecile

This story featured the music of David Rocha, the original score is by Renzo Gorrio

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 13 – Episode 49

Carol dreamt of being the best elephant trainer in the world. When Carol met Tarra, a baby Asian elephant, she fell in love and wanted to teach her everything. As their friendship grew, Tarra became Carol's most important teacher.

BIG thanks to Carol for sharing her story with us! Carol bought a piece of land and created a refuge for Tarra -- The Elephant Refuge North America, in Attapulgus, Georgia. 

Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 27 

This is a story about a boy called Finn who loved to fish, play baseball, write poetry, and embroider… and what happens to a small Vermont community as it staggers forward after an unspeakable tragedy.

This incredible Peabody award-winning story comes to us from the Rumble Strip podcast. For more about Finn and the Bell and to read people’s reactions to the show, visit the Rumble Strip Vermont website.

Thank you to producer, Erica Heilman, for sharing this story with us. Big thanks and love to Tara Reese for her insights and courage in the making of this show. Thanks as well to all the people of Hardwick and to the Bread and Puppet Band.

If you or someone you know needs support, The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline telephone number is: 800.273.8255.

Since this show was made, Erica and Tara and their friend Rose have started an organization in Hardwick called the Civic Standard, whose mission is to give the people of Hardwick plenty of excuses to get together... and to make events where everyone is welcome, and everyone comes. To learn more about it, visit The Civic Standard.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 48

A young girl's fantastic dream to be a doctor sends her into the middle of political realities of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

This story contains scenes of domestic abuse and gun violence, please take care while listening.

Thank you, MJ Fièvre, for sharing your story with us! You can read more about MJ’s childhood in Haiti in her memoir: “A Sky the Color of Chaos” And she’s working on a book series that uplifts Black women and girls - check out all that and more at badassblackgirl.com

Produced by David Exumé, original story score by Lalin St. Juste, artwork by Teo Ducot

Music and sound design for opening story by Druuvy 

Season 13 - Episode 47

A person with a "situation" turns to poetry for some advice. This week on Snap, we dive into an epic poem to solve a problem with Luisa Beck from Audible’s “Dear Poetry” podcast.

This episode is uncensored and contains strong language, sensitive listeners & young Snappers please be advised.

BIG love and thanks to Luisa Beck for this segment of “Dear Poetry”! Thank you also to poet Luther Hughes as well as the OG poet Paul Tran who actually wrote the poem featured in this episode (“Like Judith Slaying Holofernes”).

“Dear Poetry” has even more callers with more dilemmas – and a lot more poetry on their podcast – you can listen at adbl.co/DearPoetry!

If you like what you hear - Audible has a free trial. Listen to the entire season of “Dear Poetry” with that free trial and leave a review… it helps in so many ways! You can also follow @luibeck on Twitter for show updates.

Season 13 - Episode 46

There are sounds you long to hear, smells you can’t unsmell, and tastes you forget about entirely when you’re in prison. Five San Quentin residents go deep in the SEASON 10 PREMIERE of Ear Hustle. And what does it mean to be found “Suitable?” Who is, who isn't and why the hell not? Nate McKinney and his family at the Uncuffed podcast get together for an award-winning send-off.

The Five Senses from Ear Hustle

Life in prison can mess with your senses. There are smells you can’t unsmell, and sounds you long to hear. Some tastes you forget about entirely, and some forms of touch are almost too evocative to bear. Five San Quentin residents reflect on the sights, tastes, touch, smells, and sounds of prison life.

Voices heard on this episode: David Ditto, Andrew “Boots” Hardy, Ryan Pagan, Kevin Arbuckle, and Reggie Thorpe, and Tony de Trinidad

Scored with music by: Lee Jaspar, Antwan Williams, Rhashiyd Zinnamon, Fernando Arruda, and David Jassy

This story comes from our friends at Ear Hustle - BIG thanks to their whole team for sharing this story with us!

Ear Hustle is a proud member of Radiotopia, from PRX. This incredible team just kicked off their 10th Season and it is packed with amazing stories!!! Go on over to their website to subscribe, see pictures, and learn more about all things Ear Hustle!

Nate’s Going Home from Uncuffed

After over 20 years of incarceration, Uncuffed producer Nate McKinney is going home. Like other lifers in the system, he could have been incarcerated for life. But recently, the Board of Parole Hearings found him suitable to re-enter society. In today's episode, stories of facing the board — and wishes for a friend heading back into the big wide world.

Uncuffed is a show made by people behind bars in California prisons. They share intimate stories of struggles and triumphs, and of the heartache and forgiveness taking place within prison walls. Uncuffed is vulnerable and personal. Listen now!

URGENT: Uncuffed suddenly lost their funding. Donate NOW so the program can survive.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 45

An underwater photographer sets out on a quest to document harp seals and experiences a moment that becomes a part of her forever. And everyone in the city of Pumpkintown is hunting for Sasquatch, including the only man who knows exactly where Bigfoot lives.

STORIES

Thin Ice

An underwater photographer sets out on a quest to document harp seals and experiences a moment that becomes a part of her forever.

This story contains descriptions of animal death in the wild. Sensitive listeners, please be advised

Thank you, Jennifer Hayes, for sharing your story with us! Special thanks to Jennifer’s guide Mario Cyr and her husband David Doubilet.

You can find Jennifer and David’s stunning photographs of harp seals in National Geographic Magazine, on their website, or on Jennifer’s Instagram.

Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

The Sasquatch of Pumpkintown

Everyone in Pumpkintown is hunting for Sasquatch… except Ben Becker. He knows exactly where Bigfoot lives.

This episode does contain strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

This story originally aired on the Here Be Monsters podcast hosted by Jeff Emtman. Listen and subscribe for more awesome stories!

Produced by Jeff Emtman

Snap Classic - Season 13 - Episode 44

When the biggest baddest bird in the wild is on the brink of death, one couple will do anything to bring her back home. Snap presents, “Birdzilla.” A Canadian love story.

This episode discusses the subject of death and contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you, Murdo Messer, for sharing your story with us! And all of us here at Snap are thinking fondly of the late Dr. Helene Van Doninck, wherever you are, thank you.

Learn more about the Cobequid Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre! Check out animal photos and videos on their Facebook and Twitter.

Produced by Nikka Singh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 43

Producer, Ruby Schwartz, pitched us a story. We said yes. But then Ruby had a new problem: how do you turn a 320-page memoir into a radio story?

This feature pulls back the curtain on how this week’s Snap episode, “The Wedding Guest” was made.

Thank you, Rob Rosenthal and Ruby Schwartz, for sharing this process! This piece came to us from our friends at the Sound School Podcast. Listen to the original version here.

Looking for ways to learn about storytelling and how to podcast? Subscribe to the Sound School Podcast (formerly known as HowSound). It’s still from PRX. It’s still from Transom. Just a new name. Find it all places you subscribe to podcasts!

Interested in reading the memoir featured in this episode? Check out The Lost Boy: Tales of a Child Soldier by Ayik Chut Deng.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 42

After years of fighting battles as a child soldier, a Sudanese man finds himself a refugee in Australia. As he struggles to overcome his past, he comes face-to-face with his childhood tormentor on a TV show.

This episode recounts real events that happened to a child soldier, including graphic scenes inside a prison camp, listener discretion is advised.

Thank you, Ayik, for sharing your incredible story with us! To learn more about Ayik’s life, check out his memoir, The Lost Boy. You can also catch Ayik on Harrow, a crime drama now airing on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Produced by Ruby Schwartz, edited by Nancy López. Special thanks to Wendy Love

Original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

This week’s music spotlight features the song “Rocketeer” from our very own Renzo Gorrio! Renzo scores so many stories on Snap (like this one!) and he produces under the name Hydroplane. Listen to “Rocketeer” from his album “Rockets” available on cassette, vinyl, and digitally on Bandcamp.

Snap Classic - Season 13 - Episode 41

Spooked’s own Annie Nguyen shares her family’s ghost story. When her father got the call from his siblings and cousins back in Vietnam, asking him to help them find their ancestors’ missing caskets, he got on the first plane out of California. But when he got there, he realized they needed to call on higher powers to help them locate the long-lost grave sites.

Oh yes… it’s Part Two of “Campfire Tales.” Featuring supernatural stories from our sister podcast, Spooked, a Luminary Original.

BIG love and thanks to Poppa Nguyen, for sharing your story with us!

Produced by Annie Nguyen, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Translation by George Q. Nguyen - please note the translation was condensed for clarity.

All-new episodes of Spooked return to Luminary September 9th! To listen to all episodes of Spooked as they’re released regularly through next Spring, subscribe to the Luminary Channel on Apple Podcasts, or directly on Luminary: https://luminary.link/spooked

Season 13 - Episode 40

There are some places, deep in the woods, far away from civilization, that are magical. Chuck is hiking deep in the Appalachian woods when he stumbles upon one of these places: Dismal Falls. But Dismal Falls isn’t all fairies and rainbows. It’s a place of dark magic.

At last… it’s that time of year where we bring you our traditional, “Campfire Tales.” Stories crafted in the dark of night from our sister podcast, Spooked, a Luminary Original. Be afraid.

Thanks, Chuck, for sharing your story!

Produced by Greta Weber, original score by Clay Xavier, artwork by Teo Ducot

All-new episodes of Spooked return to Luminary in early September. To listen to all episodes of Spooked as they’re released regularly through next Spring, subscribe to the Luminary Channel on Apple Podcasts, or directly on Luminary: https://luminary.link/spooked

Season 13 - Episode 39

A woman recounts her Aunt’s fairytale love story while searching for her own Modern Romance. An African princess learns she is truly beautiful. And a precocious eight-year-old finds himself on the brink of a revolution.

STORIES

Modern Romance

In the second half of her life, Stephanie found her classic Hollywood romance. Now she attempts to understand the strange and confusing world of dating apps to help her niece – and the show’s host Nichole – find her happily ever after.

This story comes to us from The Secret Adventures of Black People, hosted by Nichole Hill. This incredible podcast tells the stories of Black people holding it down across space and time. Be sure to check out the show and subscribe to the podcast at TheSecretAdventuresOfBlackPeople.com

Stay in touch by joining the newsletter, following their Instagram, or by sending an email to secretadventuresofblackpeople@gmail.com

Modern Romance was written and produced by Nichole Hill with production assistance by Shonte Hill, and story editing assistance by Talia Bender. Special thanks to Stephanie Camolli!

Music: Epidemic Sound

Beautiful – Sonya Renee Taylor

An African princess learns she is truly beautiful.

This story was performed by Sonya Renee Taylor at Snap LIVE in DC. Sonya Renee Taylor is an internationally acclaimed performance poet, actress, educator, and activist. The LIVE score was composed by amazing Alex Mandel & performed by Alex Mandel, David Brandt, and Tim Frick. Watch Sonya’s Snap LIVE performance.

Liberation – Latif Doman

When Latif Doman is growing up in Philly, he takes his schoolwork seriously… which is unfortunate for the parents in his neighborhood.

Many thanks to Latif and Story District for bringing us this story!

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 26

Mirza is a young Afghan military commander and Deven is his counterpart in the U.S. Marines. Their troops work together "shona b'shona" side-by-side in Taliban territory in a tenuous trust. When the US pulls out of Afghanistan the depth of their friendship is put to the test.

This story contains graphic imagery, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Many thanks to Deven Ravel, and Mirza for sharing their stories!

Special thanks to Mary Mathis, Sarah Delia, and Nikka Singh.

Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Renzo Gorrio

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 38

Starting on live TV at a beauty pageant, we follow four women across two referendums to explore the consequences of talking about abortion and discover the quiet power and hidden dangers of speech itself. And when a young Josh Healy learns some unexpected news from his girlfriend, his first thought is of his grandmothers.

STORIES

Lights Out: A Sense of Quietness

This story follows a line of connection through four women across two referendums to explore the unexpected consequences of talking about abortion. Starting on live television at a beauty pageant, we hear from a journalist, a radio producer, the founder of a woman's clinic and a woman traveling from Ireland to the UK - and discover the quiet power and hidden dangers of speech itself.

This story contains threats of sexual assault and discusses abortion. Please take care while listening.

A Sense of Quietness’ was originally produced for Lights Out, a Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4.

It was produced by Eleanor McDowall and features Brianna Parkins, Siobhan McHugh and Anne Connolly, as well as the anonymous woman who traveled. With additional recordings courtesy of Zoë Comyns and Regan Hutchins.

To hear more documentaries from the Lights Out series, everything is freely available on the Falling Tree website.

Barbara & Esther

When Josh Healey learns some unexpected news from his girlfriend, his first thought… is of Grandma Barbara and Grandma Henrietta

This story was told at SNAP LIVE in New York. Watch Josh’s live performance!

The original music was composed by Alex Mandel, and performed by Alex and the Snap Judgment Playaz — Tim Frick and David Brandt. It was recorded and mixed by Pat Mesiti-Miller.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Special thanks to Yera, Annie Ngyuen, and Richard Bowie for collecting tape out on the streets for this episode.

Season 13 - Episode 37

Six people, six different times and places, but they all find themselves in the same predicament, asking the same question, should they stop or should they go?

This episode contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

BIG thanks to Tyler Estep, who first reported Philip Dean’s story for the Atlanta-Journal Constitution. Thanks also to Cole Richards and Randy Scott Carroll for recording assistance.

Thank you to everyone interviewed for this story: Troy Stokes, Philip Dean, Betsy Richards, Delrish Moss, Carol Steele, and the Lucky Guy.

Big love and thanks to Shannon Cason, who narrated this piece. Check out Shannon’s podcast ‘Homemade Stories’ to hear more from him.

Produced by Anna Sussman, John Fecile & Nancy López, original score by Renzo Gorrio

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 13 - Episode 36

Isabell is Jason’s mother. She raised him to be ambitious and selfless, which means she’s also raised him to be… overwhelmed. With life. But not to worry, Jason’s mom also knows exactly what to say to pull him out of a rut, which she does every Sunday, when Jason rolls up to her house for their weekly visit.

Thank you Jason, Isabell, and our Radiotopia Presents fam for sharing this story with the Snap!

This is Episode 1, “I Can Do Anything,” from, My Mother Made Me, a four-part series from Radiotopia Presents where writer Jason Reynolds and his mother, Isabell, explore their shared history, how she raised him, and what they’re teaching each other. It’s a love letter to their connection, an homage to parent-child friendship, and a testament to how growth can be perpetual, despite age or circumstance. Across four episodes, Jason and Isabell go deep – into birth, death and spirituality… but they also keep it light: pushing a cart through Costco, birthday lunches, and hitting the casino together. That’s just how they do.

My Mother Made Me is written and narrated by Jason Reynolds with his mother, Isabell Reynolds. The series is produced by Mark Pagán and edited by Julie Shapiro, with production support from Yooree Losordo. Julie Shapiro and Audrey Mardavich are Executive Producers for Radiotopia Presents. Special thanks to Levar Burton. Cover art by Jason Griffin. Theme song by Christian Reynolds. Mixing, sound design and additional original music is by Ian Coss. This episode was recorded at Snap Power Station, WAMU.

Radiotopia Presents debuts limited-run, artist-owned series, from new and original voices. Learn more and access transcripts at radiotopiapresents.fm and discover more shows from across the Radiotopia network at radiotopia.fm.

Snap Spotlight - Season 13 - Episode 35

An undercover ATF agent is going full throttle on a highway to hell as he tries to infiltrate the most notorious motorcycle club on the planet.

This story contains police violence, descriptions of violence, and graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

BIG thanks to Jay Dobyns for sharing his story with Snap. There is so much that we were not able to share with you about Jay’s experience. To find out more check out his memoirs “No Angel” and “Catching Hell.”

Special thanks to George Christie.

The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club did not respond to requests for comment on this story.

Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 34

When Swiyyah and Dederick got married, her schizophrenia was a challenge they thought was under control. Until it wasn’t. And Glynn tells a story at Snap LIVE in Brooklyn about searching for his lost friend in Las Vegas.

STORIES

Swiyyah and Dederick

When Swiyyah and Dederick got married, her schizophrenia was a challenge they thought was under control. Until it wasn’t. Listen as they share their story of facing life’s many challenges with love, faith, and each other.

This story comes to us from the amazing Unseen & Unheard podcast. This show aims to change the way we see schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder by revealing the untold stories of those actually living with these illnesses. Hear from adults in the US going through life with these conditions. The hardships. The humanity. But also, the hope. Learn more at www.UnseenUnheardPodcast.com.

This story was produced by PRX productions, Jocelyn Gonzales, Ian Fox, with writing by Sarah Lilley, and engineering by Tommy Bazarian with assistance from Marisa Dodge. It is sponsored by Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

Leaving Las Vegas

Glynn tells a story at Snap LIVE in Brooklyn about searching for his lost friend in Las Vegas. Music by Bells Atlas. Engineering by Pat Mesiti-Miller.

This story contains some strong language. Sensitive listeners please be advised.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 33

What's rich, buttery, and tastes like opportunity? Callo de Hacha. The shellfish delicacy that gave one Sinaloan town... "White Gold Fever.” And "Escape From Mammoth Pool," the harrowing rescue of 242 people and 16 dogs from the blazing fast "Creek" wildfire.

STORIES

White Gold Fever

What's rich, buttery, and tastes like opportunity? Callo de Hacha. The shellfish delicacy that gave one Sinaloan town... "White Gold Fever.

Thank you, Belen, and to everyone in Teacapan for sharing this story with us!

This story was produced in collaboration with Fern: the Food & Environment Reporting Network, a nonprofit investigative journalism outlet. BIG thanks to Brent Cunningham and Sam Fromartz at Fern.

Our friends at Fern have a new podcast called Hot Farm. Over four episodes, host Eve Abrams talks to farmers across the Midwest about the reality of climate change and what they are doing -- or could be doing -- to fight it. Find Hot Farm wherever you get your podcasts.

Produced and reported by Esther Honig

Edited by Nancy López with production support from John Fecile

Original score by Renzo Gorrio

Voice acting by Leonel Garza

Escape From Mammoth Pool

We like to think of time as a constant, as steady, unfluctuating, and infallible. But in some situations—like if you think you’re about to be overtaken by a raging wildfire—time can bend and flex. This week, Snap spotlights Escape From Mammoth Pool, a podcast about the harrowing rescue of 242 people and 16 dogs from one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California’s recorded history.

Produced out of KVPR in Fresno, California, by reporter/producer Kerry Klein. Edited by Alice Daniel, engineering and sound design by Kerry Klein, web support from Alex Burke, music by Kevin MacLeod (songs: Acid Trumpet, Beauty Flow, Half Mystery, Rising Tide, Unanswered Questions, Winter Reflections), and sound effects by FreeSound.

Episode art by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 32

Mary needed to get away from her husband. A handsome stranger offered her a way out. All she had to do was participate in the strangest group experiment of all time.

This story contains scenes of domestic abuse as well as sexual situations. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you, Mary Gidley, for sharing your story with Snap. Mary just released a memoir titled Point to Point.

You can learn more about the Acali experiment in the incredible documentary The Raft. Hear from Mary and other participants as they relive the experiment on a life-size recreation of the raft. The Raft opened in theaters in the U.S. in 2019 and begins streaming on digital platforms in the U.S. on May 19, 2020.

Special thanks to director Marcus Lindeen.

Produced by John Fecile, original score by Leon Morimoto

Artwork by: Sanaa Khan

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Snap Classic - Season 13 - Episode 31

Yonis, vaginas, and sex were ALL forbidden language for Ashley and her conservative church-going Liberian mom. But when adult life got too big and too real those family secrets would be the one thing bringing them together.

This story uses strong language, discusses sex and genitalia, and briefly mentions molestation. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

BIG thanks to Ashley Asatu and Janice Kennedy for sharing your story with us! Learn more about The Yoni Day Spa + check it out on Instagram.

Produced by Regina Bediako, original score by Sandra Lawson-Ndu, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 30

Andy Marra is on a mission to Korea in search of the mother she never knew with a secret she absolutely has to tell.

Thank you, Andy, for sharing your story with Snap! Find out more about her advocacy work here.

Produced by Regina Bediako, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 13 – Episode 29

Four hairstylists compete to win the Bronner Bros Hair Battle, a one-of-a-kind hairstyling showdown. Winning this competition doesn't just represent a feather in one's cap, it's a stepping stone to getting celebrity clients. Big hair. Big personalities.

BIG thanks to all the stylists who shared their stories with us!

Ashley Payne, the bob queen, moved her salon to a new location, a private, appointment-only, suite. She suffered some health blows and started a gofundme to help pay for a liver transplant.

Check out Tammie B’s work! Que Barnes is still at the helm of her salon in Atlanta. Terrence Davidson, the king of hair, started selling hair products online called Kingz N Queenz.

Produced by Chris Hambrick & Nancy Lopez, with assistance from Shaina Shealy

Original score by Marco Prestige, sound design by Pat Mesiti-Miller, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 15 – Episode 25

Brian’s desperate for cash, until a random ghost writer answers his Craigslist ad for a roommate. Now, he's about to get more drama than he ever imagined.

BIG thanks to Brian Boucher for sharing his story with Snap!

Brian wrote about this experience in New York Magazine titled “My Roommate, The Diamond Thief.” Read more about it.

Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 28

A mild-mannered theater professor attempts to stage a controversial play in a small East Texas town.

This episode discusses drug use, sex, homophobia, and contains explicit language. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you to Joseph Magee, Justin Adams, Jennifer Ann Handy, and the rest of the cast and crew of Angels in America Kilgore College, 1999.

BIG love and thanks to Raymond Caldwell, who retired after 54 years of teaching theater.

This story was based on the Texas Monthly magazine article “When ‘Angels in America’ Came to East Texas” by Wes Ferguson.

Special thanks also to the Texas Shakespeare Festival, Matthew Simpson, Helena de Groot, Kyle Henry, Katie Song and Colin Hyer.

Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Snap Classic - Season 13 - Episode 27

A man washes up on shore in Sitka, Alaska and finds himself in the middle of an underground boxing show. It’s a place where you might duke it out with the bartender, the locals, or your own troubled past.

This episode contains violence and strong language. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you, Jaed “The Stone” Coffin, for sharing your story with us! For more about Jaed’s story, check out his memoir Roughhouse Friday.

Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Doug Stuart, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 26

Richard Hatch is overseas on a top-secret mission… to win over Jill, the most elusive, electrifying student in his 7th-grade class. He isn’t suave or sophisticated, so he’s gonna need help from The Beatles, the Russians, and even the CIA to pull it off.

Thank you, Richard Hatch aka Danger 9b, for sharing your story with us!

Rick is back in the US and is putting the finishing touches on a kid-friendly memoir about his travels abroad.

Produced by Regina Bediako, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 25

Two crazy cats and one hard-nosed reporter land in Syria right as it is thrown into turmoil. Rasha Elass navigates her way through Damascus amidst government crackdowns and whistling missiles in search of the country she loves.

This story contains graphic imagery and descriptions of wartime violence, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you, Rasha, for sharing your story with us! Rasha Elass is currently the editorial director at New Lines Magazine, where she first shared this story. She’s also working on a memoir about her childhood and reporting days in Syria. Follow what she’s up to on her website.

Produced by David Exumé, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 24

When Julie Lindahl discovered that her grandfather had been an active member of the German SS, she decided to return to the scene of his crimes. But her grandmother made things difficult.

This story contains brief descriptions of graphic imagery and torture. Please take care while listening.

Thanks, Julie, for sharing your story with us! Julie Lindahl has written a book about her experience: The Pendulum: A Granddaughter's Search for Her Family's Forbidden Nazi Past.

A version of this story was originally produced for the podcast Kind World, which tells stories about the effect a single act can have on our lives. You can find Kind World in any podcast app.

Produced by Erika Lantz with production assistance from Liz Mak

Original Score and Sound Design by Leon Morimoto

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 23 - Snap Classic

When no one can hear you and nobody sees you anymore, how do you tell the world you are still there? One man's impossible journey back to the world that forgot him.

This story contains descriptions of drug use, medical situations, and adult language. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you, Jake, so very much, for sharing your story with Snap.

Jacob Haendel is writing a book about his experiences and documents his recovery on his YouTube channel and website. He recently started Access, an app to help people with disabilities more confidently get around.

Producer: James Reddick

Editorial & production support: John Fecile

Original Score: Renzo Gorrio

Special thanks: Nikka Singh

Artwork: Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 22

Gina gives snark like she’s paid for it—because she is. She’s a popular podcast producer with fans, followers, and frenemies. Until her life gets interrupted by a very loud roar. This week, Snap spotlights, A Hit Dog Will Holler from Radiotopia Presents featuring a bonus interview with Glynn & writer, Inda Craig-Galván.

This episode contains explicit language. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

This is episode one of A Hit Dog Will Holler. Listen, subscribe, and go listen to the other episodes right now! Want even more? Go to radiotopiapresents.fm.

Written by Inda Craig-Galván, produced and directed by Gisele Regatao. Mixing and sound design by Sandra Lopez-Monsalve, with help from Isabel Hibbard. The music theme is by Cristina Gaillard. Show art by Yee Eun Nam.

This podcast was recorded under a SAG-AFTRA Collective Bargaining Agreement. It features Cynthia K. McWilliams as Gina and Ronnie. J. Nicole Brooks as Dru. Jacqueline Guillen as Constance and the receptionist. Thank you to WNYC News for the audio of Black Lives Matter protests. Support for this project was provided in part by a PSC-CUNY Award, jointly funded by The Professional Staff Congress and The City University of New York.

For Radiotopia Presents, Mark Pagán is the producer. Production support from Yooree Losordo. Audrey Mardavich and Julie Shapiro are the executive producers.

Season 13 - Episode 21 - Spotlight

For 110 days Peter Hammarstedt and his group of ocean vigilantes hunted the most notorious poacher of sea bass on the high seas, known as the Thunder. Their journey turns into an epic chase across 10,000 miles, two seas, and three oceans, through massive ice floors, violent clashes, and storms-tossed seas, where only one ship makes it home.

This story contains explicit language, sensitive listeners please be advised.

Thank you so much to Peter Hammarstedt for sharing your story with us!

Thanks as well to Ian Urbina. We first heard about this story thanks to his reporting. You can find his book, The Outlaw Ocean: Journeys Across the Last Untamed Frontier, on Knopf, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. Ian has a great collection of stories and books about the lawless ocean.

Also, BIG thanks to Brick City TV & Mark Benjamin for sharing the audio from their documentary, Ocean Warriors: Chasing the Thunder. You can see a trailer of the film here.

Produced by Nikka Singh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 20 - Snap Classic

A young woman wakes up in her Beijing dorm room to a call. A strange voice, a man she barely remembers, is asking her a question that will change her destiny. And a doctor hears one of her classical music idols play one of the greatest serenades of all time.

STORIES

Ping

A young woman wakes up in her Beijing dorm room to a call. A strange voice,  a man she barely remembers, is asking her a question that will change her destiny.

Thank you, Wang Ping, for sharing your story with us! Wang Ping is a poet, writer, photographer, performance and multimedia artist. Want to learn more about her? Check out her website.

Produced by Annie Nguyen, original score by Daniel Riera, artwork by Teo Ducot

“Dying to Tchaikovsky”

Family medicine physician Catherine Sonquist Forest listens to one of her classical music idols serenade a dying loved one in the hospital.

This story came to us from The Nocturnists podcast, it was told by Catherine Forest, MD. The Nocturnists are a vibrant community of healthcare workers who are celebrating their humanity through storytelling. They have live performances, a podcast, and so much more. Listen & subscribe now!

Hosted by Emily Silverman

Produced by Emily Silverman and Marina Poole.

Story Development by Adelaide Papazoglou

Sound Engineering by Alberto Hernandez

Assistant Producing by Kirk Klocke

Original theme music by Yosef Munro, additional music by Blue Dot Sessions.

Season 13 - Episode 19

Drama Club is the happy, safe space for Lee and Parker until their school play becomes a homophobic middle school meltdown. The lights get turned up to 10, the adults are in a media frenzy, and the kids are just trying to figure it all out.

STORIES

Don't Say Gay Dads

Drama Club is the happy, safe space for Lee and Parker until their school play becomes a homophobic middle school meltdown. The lights get turned up to 10, the adults are in a media frenzy, and the kids are just trying to figure it all out.

This story contains descriptions of abuse directed at gay persons. Please take care while listening.

A very big thank you to Lee and Parker—who are best friends to this day.  Thanks as well to Jamie McGonnigal.

Produced by Mark Betancourt, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff

Playground Bullies and Dark Secrets 

In middle school, Mike has a secret. But no one has ever seen “it.” 

This was performed at Snap LIVE in Los Angeles.

“Mighty” Mike McGee is an international spoken word artist, writer, performer, speaker, slam poet and comic. McGee is the first slam poet to win both the American National Poetry Slam Individual Grand Championship and the Individual World Poetry Slam Championship. 

Original score composed and performed by Alex Mandel, Tim Frick, and David Brandt.

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 15 - Episode 24

The story of a chimpanzee and a man whose dream brought disaster to a small American town.

This story details violence against animals. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

Thank you, Carson Vaughan, for sharing your story with Snap! Read more about Zoo Nebraska in Carson’s book, Zoo Nebraska: The Dismantling of an American Dream.

Additional thanks to Patti Ragan from the Center for Great Apes.

Produced by John Fecile and Carson Vaughan, original score by Renzo Gorrio

Additional production by Jesse Dukes and Pat Mesiti-Miller

Artwork by Teo Ducot

Interested in protecting Great Apes? Learn more at the Center for Great Apes

Season 13 – Episode 18 - Snap Classic

Two women, Bates and Stokes, were LPCs at Pontiac Correctional Center outside Chicago. They were popular with their clients. They always had each other’s back. And that... was just the start of their problems. Plus, the story of two men who come face to face one night in the canyonlands of southern Utah.

STORIES

Bates & Stokes

Two women, Bates and Stokes, were LPCs at Pontiac Correctional Center outside Chicago. They were popular with their clients. They always had each other’s back. And that... was just the start of their problems.

This story contains graphic elements and mentions suicide and racism. Please take care while listening.

This story comes to us from WBEZ’s new season of the Motive podcast. This season investigates the hidden world of big prisons in small towns. Places where everyone knows each other and difficult truths get buried. Listen and subscribe to Motive now!

Reported by Shannon Heffernan

Produced by Jesse Dukes, Marie Mendoza, and Joe Deceault with story editing from John Fecile, Annie Nguyen, and Nancy Lopez

Special thanks to Adamu Chan

Original Score by Cue Shop and Renzo Gorrio

Artwork by Teo Ducot

The Incident At Poison Spider Mesa

The story of two men who come face to face one night in the canyonlands of southern Utah.

Brody Young is a Utah State Park Ranger and motivational speaker, helping other people figure out how to survive the unsurvivable. To find out more about his story, be sure to check out his website.

Produced by Joe Rosenberg, original score by Leon Morimoto

Season 13 - Episode 17

A plane crash, a mysterious man in a white suit, and a crazy idea to just go with the flow on a journey to the Amazon River. All aboard "The Pink Palace." Your honeymoon starts... now.

Thank you, Holly Fitzgerald, for sharing your story with us! Read more about Holly’s epic romance in her memoir, Ruthless River.

Produced by Nikka Singh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Season 13 - Episode 16 - Snap Classic