Hey, Moth listeners, it's Leanne. I'm really excited for you to hear today's episode.

But in the meantime, I wanted you to know that we're in the midst of our year-end fundraising campaign.

The Moth is an independent nonprofit, and your support is what keeps our stories alive.

Here's the thing. Donations to public radio and podcast descriptions are important.

But in order to keep our engine running, we're asking you to make a

donation directly to the moth today. Every dollar helps bring you amazing stories from around the

world, like the one you'll hear in today's episode. So if you've been moved by the stories you've heard

this year, please make a donation. Visit the moth.org or text give 24 with no space in between

to 78679. Once again, that's the moth.org or text give 24 with no space in between to 78679.

Once again, that's the moth.org or text give 24 with no space in between to 78679.

Thanks for listening. Welcome to The Moth Podcast.

I'm Jody Powell, your host for this episode and one of the directors at the Moth.

Every personal story shared reveals the threads that connect us all.

It reminds us we're not alone.

Finding, developing, and sharing personal stories on moth stages around the world

on our podcast and on our Moth Radio Hour

is a collaborative effort between our storytellers and staff

made possible through the effort of our donors, audience members, and listeners like you.

You make small personal moments come to life and mean so much to so many.

At The Moth, we have this really special opportunity to connect to storytellers from all

around the world via our open mic story slams or pitch line or workshop programs and the Moth

pop a porch or Mobile Listening Hub.

...