I am a voracious podcast listener. When friends or acquaintences ask me for podcast recommendations, I have a ready list of over two dozen ranging on topics from history, crime, storytelling, advice, music, science, and drama. They range from G-rated to adult topics.

One podcast I knew and loved long before I ever heard of a podcast is The Moth. The Moth features live storytelling, where amateurs and professionals get up on stage and tell a story with no notes or props. They range from light-hearted and funny, to emotionally wrenching, inspiring, and moving.

Live Moth storytelling events are hosted regularly in cities all over the country and abroad.

Years ago I would catch Moth storytelling bits broadcast on Public Radio. I later learned about podcasts which meant I wouldn’t miss any broadcasts and could listen whenever and as often as I wanted. You can subscribe on your mobile device app, or just link to the Moth website.

There are so many Moth stories I love, and here are some favorites I revisit from time to time:

Man and Beast – Alan Rabinowitz
Deeply moving story about a severely stuttering child who grows up to speak and advocate for animals.

Elevator ER – Jon Levin
Slacker hospital orderly gets a nerve-wracking and hilarious wake-up call.

Beneath the Sheets: Klansmen I’ve Covered – Jerry Mitchell
Gripping story from an investigative reporter who, at great risk to himself, locates and pursues suspects from decades’ old Civil Rights Movement era crimes.

Franny’s Last Ride – Mike DeStefano
Heart-breaking story of a former junkie trying to support his wife who is dying in hospice.

Backseat Cop – Paul Bacon
Rookie cop accidentally locks himself in the back of his car. Hilarity ensues.

Walk Like a Cop, Talk Like a Cop – Steve Osborne
Longtime NYC cop bumps into a former perp while out for a walk in the park.

Oliver’s Pink Bicycle – James Braly
Dad wanting to be a good father challenged by his 3-year old’s desire for a pink bike.

You Can Lead a Horse to Water – Sam Shepard
Actor Sam Shepard brings his own horse to the set of the movie, “The Right Stuff.” Things don’t go well.