The Moth
By Claire Crossman,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Insightful real-life stories with powerful messages.
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What’s It About?
THE MOTH is a storytelling podcast great for teens and adults. Stories range from personal narratives to cathartic fiction and are told to a live audience -- you can hear their reaction to the stories. Each story ranges from 10-20 minutes in length and they are often placed in collections, surrounding a theme. The show's website offers an extensive catalog of various storytelling genres, events, education spaces, and community organizations (such as women's health and ending world hunger). Stories vary greatly in content, and some may be more appropriate for kids than others.
Is It Any Good?
If Humans of New York were a podcast, this would be it. This collection of cathartic real-life stories is as versatile as it is impressive. The Moth has an elaborate range of personal confessions in the form of storytelling, which can serve as an emotional journey and source of empathy for its listeners. The Moth may bring people in with its amazing storytellers, but it keeps people engaged through it's larger objective, to create community and a space to grow through storytelling. With so many different themes and stories told from varied perspectives, The Moth is sure to open your eyes and touch your heart. This is a great podcast for teens to listen to on their own or with their family or friends.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the speakers in The Moth are brave and vulnerable as they tell their stories on stage in front of people. Have you ever spoken or told a story in front of a crowd? What are some ways to calm your nerves when speaking in front of others?
The art of storytelling can be powerful in connecting people and creating a sense of empathy. What are some aspects of how these speakers tell their stories that touched you? Were there certain styles of storytelling you heard that you could relate to?
This podcast has strong themes of courage, communication and perseverance. Why are these important character strengths?
Often times we watch a comedy special or a TED Talk, but these stories rely mainly on audio. How is listening to a story through a podcast different than watching someone tell their story? Is one more impactful than the other?
Podcast Details
- Release date: March 6, 2008
- Genre: Storytelling
- Average Run Time: 20 minutes
- Website: https://themoth.org/podcast/
- Host: N/A
- Production Companies and Networks: PRX , The Moth
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Activism , Friendship , Great Boy Role Models , Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Communication , Courage , Empathy , Perseverance
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: September 19, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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