Audacious with Chion Wolf

Would you leave your family, friends, home, and job to move over a thousand miles away to take care of a pet squirrel? Meet two people who did just that for 8 year-old Thumbelina. Then, meet a birdkeeper at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute who was chosen by an endangered crane to be her life partner for almost 20 years. This episode originally aired on September 13, 2024. Listen to an updated conversation with Chris Crowe, including his experience getting his first tattoo - a giant portrait of Walnut. Suggested episodes: Wings, pouches, and snouts: The world of uncommon emotional support animalsBirdwatching legend Peter Kaestner's journey to 10,000 birdsAudacious kids: Stories of courage, conservation, and compassion GUESTS: Christina and Michael Reyes: ThumbelinaChris Crowe:Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology InstituteSupport the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We recently rebroadcast our Audacious episode featuring Chris Crowe. He's a bird keeper at Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute’s campus in Front Royal, Virginia. He spent nearly twenty years as the chosen partner of an endangered white-naped crane named Walnut. She was one of only 5,000 in the world, but to Chris, she was one of a kind. Walnut's life expectancy as a bird living in captivity was 15 years. But she died at the age of 42 on January 2, 2024. In that original episode, just five months after her death, I spoke with Chris about their life together. And from the responses we got, their life together deeply resonated with you. Which is why we decided to rebroadcast it! But then something remarkable happened. A few hours after we decided to publish that rerun, I saw a post from Chris on Facebook: He just got his first tattoo - a giant portrait of Walnut. When the universe lines things up that precisely, I pay attention. So I reached out to him. I wanted to ask what moved him to get this tattoo now, how it feels to carry her on his arm, and how he’s doing as the two-year anniversary of her death approaches. Photo and tattoo by Maggie Cho. Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some people “age gracefully.” These three women age audaciously! 91 year-old comedian, D’yan Forest, commands the stage with her ukulele and sharp wit, spinning the stories of her long life into laughter. Family law attorney Harriet Newman Cohen, 92, is the kind of lawyer who changed history for LGBTQ+ families and plans on never stopping. And Charlotte Guttenberg, the 77-year-old Guinness World Record holder for most-tattooed female senior citizen, started inking her body in her fifties and turned herself into a living, breathing work of art. Suggested episodes: Audacious EldersChange of art: Stories about tattoo coverups GUESTS: D’yan Forest:A Gefilte Fish Out Of WaterHarriet Newman Cohen:Passion and Power: A Life in Three WorldsCharlotte Guttenberg:Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who rejoices in making a bad episode of public radio? We do! But only the best kind of bad. On this episode of Audacious, meet Jon from Jon Breaks Bad News, who delivers other people’s worst messages for a living. Then, the co-founders of the Golden Raspberry Awards - also known as the Razzies - celebrate Hollywood’s most spectacular cinematic failures. And finally, a few listeners share their stories of terrible dates, followed by a conversation with Rachel Lithgow. She shares her memoir, My Year of Really Bad Dates. Suggested episodes: I snuck my incarcerated boyfriend out of prison in a dog crateNothing goes as planned: A first-time offender’s prison story from arrest to releaseHow regret teaches us to live GUESTS: Jon Breaks Bad News:Jon Breaks Bad News Show, John J. B. Wilson and Mo Murphy:Razzie AwardsMichelle Horsley, Maria Grove, Lindsay Ewing:Rachel Lithgow:My Year of Really Bad DatesSupport the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a Brooklyn woman who identifies as queer, liberal, vegan, and an atheist donates her kidney to a conservative Christian man from Virginia? Kerry Kennedy and Joey Shervey tell the story of what it looks like when compassion outvotes everything else. Their transplant crossed party lines and personal beliefs to create an unexpected friendship. Then, Lindsay Vigue describes how a small flyer on the wall of a diner led her to become a living kidney donor, and then to becoming the executive director of Donate Life Connecticut. Resources: Donate Life ConnecticutNational Kidney FoundationNational Kidney RegistryOrganDonor.govFormer Middletown mayor Dan Drew's TED Talk about why he donated his kidney Suggested episode: The Story Of The First African American Face Transplant GUESTS: Joey Shervey:Kerry Kennedy:Lindsay Vigue:Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When does creation become prayer? And when does prayer become protest? Artist and poet Zulynette talks about her new book, Becoming a Soft Woman with a Machete. It's equal parts gospel, therapy session, and roast. From laughter to liberation, explore how art can be both sanctuary and sword. Suggested episodes: Poet Zulynette on “Seeing in the Dark” The playfulness of poetry with Andrew Dean WrightA fireside conversation with Hartford’s “Love Poet”, Olusanya BeyWords over weapons: When anti-war poems go viral An extended conversation about forgiveness with poet David Whyte GUEST: Zulynette:Becoming a Soft Woman with a MacheteA Little Bit of DeathSeeing in the DarkBuilding a PowerhouseSupport the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever seen Reborn Babies? They’re these hyper-realistic-looking dolls that are collected for their extraordinary artistic accuracy… And they’re also used therapeutically for people who suffer from anxiety and depression. Hear from a woman who uses them for just that reason. Plus, meet a painter who makes them look so real, a researcher on the Reborn community and culture, and a photographer who made these dolls a major part of her work. This episode originally aired on September 24, 2021. GUESTS: Emilie St-HilaireIrene GoldenJamie DiamondPatrizia BartolomeiSupport the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s 2 a.m.; the phone rings. The caller ID says Stockholm, Sweden. The voice on the other end of the line says, “Congratulations! You’ve just been awarded a Nobel Prize!” What goes through your mind in a moment like that? Meet two people who received that life-altering call. Discover not only the incredible doors it opened for them, but the unexpected challenges that came with such a prestigious honor. This episode originally aired on October 18, 2024. Suggested episodes: Laugh and then think: What it's like to win the Ig Nobel PrizeWhat it’s like winning a little or a lot on The Price Is Right, Wheel Of Fortune, and Jeopardy! GUESTS: Andrea Ghez:Martin Chalfie:Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DING DONG! Crash headfirst into the world of singing telegrams: bizarre, moving, and absolutely unforgettable. You’ll meet Joy Brooker, whose TikTok serenades bring millions to tears and laughter; Jay Bragg, who blends hospice care and honky-tonk into acoustic telegrams; and Paul Mordoff, a children’s entertainer who joins us on a bench by a lake in a tutu-clad gorilla costume. At the end, Chion puts it all into practice with her boldest assignment yet: surprising Connecticut Public’s very own president and CEO, Mark Contreras, with a song (while wearing an inflatable axolotl costume). Suggested episodes: Meet Prince & Elvis tribute artists who are finding fame, fans, and their own voiceInside the Mascot: The Phillie Phanatic, a Yard Goat, and a mascot maker GUESTS: Joy Brooker: singing telegram performer from Missouri, known for her creative characters and wide social media followingJay Bragg:acoustic singing telegramsPaul Mordoff: Mark Contreras: President & CEO of Connecticut Public Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At The Big E, a fair becomes a mirror. Wander with the Audacious crew through 175 acres of wonder and delight to meet the people who bring it to life! From a Lost & Found sage, to a fairy from the Florence Griswold Museum, to a hot tub ace, to Amber, the bathroom attendant/joy DJ. President & CEO Gene Cassidy shares the soul of the Exposition, then we follow our heads, hearts, and (especially) stomachs through cream puffs, Pepe’s pizza, cookie dough-on-a-stick, and dangerously good oddities. Suggested episodes: Scenes from the Big E: A fair filled with food, animals, music – and heart GUESTS: Mary Naughton and Cyndy Penner:Cyndy’s BearsAndrea Anderson and Sabrina Gagnon:Hobby Knoll StableSusan Rotondo and Bill Motyl:Tammi Flynn:The Florence Griswold MuseumRita Rivera:Wee Faerie VillageAmber Stone:Ed Ame:James Tackett:Darryl Wilson:Melissa Russell:John Barrows:Eugene Cassidy:Greg:Kevin Gagliard:Frank Pepe Pizzeria NapoletanaLynn Lischke:Josh Virkler:Luann’s BakeryJackson Panek-Henderson:Joseph Haag:Kora and Mila’s Cookie DoughJosh, John, and Henry Pupa:Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when adults do “Show and Tell” at a brewery? In this third live installment, recorded at Willimantic Brewing Company, names are drawn from a vase and strangers step up with objects that carry big stories: a couch cushion, a WWII code talker radio, a NeXT computer by Steve Jobs, a ravioli cutter, a shofar, even a hand grenade. The results are hilarious, heartfelt, and unforgettable, proving once again that the things we carry tell the stories of who we are. Suggested episodes: Audacious Live! Show & Tell in StamfordAudacious Live! Show & Tell birthday bash in Hartford GUESTS: Candace Arey:Tim Dwyer:Debby Page:Charles L. Perkins:Sarah Eyre:Elizabeth Thomas:Sarah Santora:the Widow’s MiteLaura Rosas: Shofar Shoshanna: Coco Cooley:Gabrielle Zane:Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes your jaw drop? A celestial event? A powerful piece of music? In this episode, explore awe in its many forms, from a total solar eclipse to the psychology of wonder. Psychologist Dacher Keltner breaks down the science of awe, cellist Yumi Kendall shares how music transports us, and Audacious listeners share their most treasured moments of awe. This episode originally aired on March 14, 2025. GUESTS: Mara Suttmann-Lea, Joseph Dickerson, and Stefan Keller:Click here to watch a video of the experienceDacher Keltner: Greater Good Science CenterThe Science of HappinessAwe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life Yumi Kendall: Tacet No MoreAwestruck Audacious listeners who sent in voice memos (in order of appearance)Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever look at a wedge of cheddar and think, “Tell me my destiny”? No? Well, it’s time. Dive into the deliciously weird world of food-based fortune telling with Jennifer Billock, a cheese oracle; Sarah Napoli, a witch who lets onions predict your romantic future; and Rebecca Zaretzky, a tea-leaf reader who sees more than just caffeine in your cup. Whether you're divining with dairy or consulting a shallot, these stories remind us that the future is everywhere, if you’re willing to look. Suggested episodes: I predict that you will listen to a public radio show about psychics Animal psychics reveal what our pets really think What near-death and shared-death experiences tell us about living GUESTS: Jennifer Billock: writer, editor, and professional cheese fortuneteller Sarah Napoli: known as The Woodland Witch on social media, Sarah shares insights into modern witchcraft, including onion divination Rebecca Zaretzky: tea leaf reader, animal communicator, spiritual mentor, and practitioner at Tea & Tarot Boutique in Clinton, CT Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marfan syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects the body’s connective tissue, sometimes in ways that are life-threatening, and often life-changing. Meet three people whose stories reveal the risks, resilience, and even humor of living with Marfan. Dr. John Elefteriades, one of the world’s leading aortic surgeons, explains how new AI tools could revolutionize diagnosis. British engineer Tal Golesworthy recalls how he designed the device that saved his own heart. And comedian Liam Nelson shares how his height, surgeries, and community shaped both his life and his stand-up. For more information, visit the Marfan Foundation. Suggested episodes: Why the world needs comedians with disabilities GUESTS: Dr. John Elefteriades:Tal Golesworthy:Liam Nelson:Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mascots: They’re furry, funny, and sometimes mischievous. But what's actually going on in there? Tom Burgoyne shares what it’s been like to embody the Phillie Phanatic for over three decades. Mikaela Higgins reveals how her company became a giant in the world of mascot-makers, designing icons from Ronald McDonald to the Energizer Bunny. And hear how one “yes“ changed the life of Conor Geary, whose turn as a mascot led to a dream sports gig he never saw coming. Suggested episode: Banjo Man, 'Woo Woo' Wickers and UConn Huskies superfans share their love of the game GUESTS: Tom BurgoynePheel The Love! How the Most Powerful Force in the Universe Builds Great Companies - Phillie Phanatic Style!Mikaela HigginsOlympus MascotsConor Geary Jessica Severin de Martinez, Meg Fitzgerald, and Robyn Doyon-Aitken contributed to this show, with help from our interns, Coco Cooley and Isaac Moss. Audacious with Chion Wolf is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Tune In, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and email. Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s in a name? For me, “Audacious” was the perfect fit for a show about bold conversations, but I’m not the only one drawn to it. Meet three creators who also built their work around that powerful word. Dr. Jody Jahn hosts The Audacious Year, helping high-achieving women rebuild their self-image from the inside out. Audley Stephenson’s The Audacious Living Podcast shares lessons on resilience from over 500 guests. And Emmy-winner Reece Robinson co-created The Audacious Report, a docuseries on extreme endurance feats. Together, we explore what it really means to live and create audaciously. Suggested episodes: Behind the mic: Gayle King, Ziwe, and Mehdi Hasan on the art of the interviewThe birth of Snap Judgment: How the end of the world became the beginning of Glynn Washington’s storyA conversation with Humans of New York creator Brandon StantonLife advice, one Audacious guest at a timeThe one where all the guests are named Pat Smith GUESTS: Jody Jahn:The Audacious YearAudley Stephenson:The Audacious Living PodcastReece Robinson:The Audacious ReportSupport the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeffrey Marsh is back on Audacious, four years after their interview with Chion Wolf cracked open a new kind of conversation about dignity, identity, and radical love. In this deeply personal follow-up, Jeffrey opens up about self-trust, forgiveness, the spiritual stakes of being visibly nonbinary in America, and why vulnerability is the real magic. Plus, how to keep your heart intact in a time of backlash and burnout. Whether you’re healing, hiding, or just barely holding on, Jeffrey’s voice is a balm and a wake-up call. Suggested episodes: Jeffrey Marsh Loves YouFive years of Audacious: Where are they now? GUEST: Jeffrey Marsh: author of How to Be You: Stop Trying to Be Someone Else and Start Living Your Life, Take Your Own Advice: Learn to Trust Your Inner Voice and Start Helping Yourself, and creator and host of the self-help podcast, Inner Voice with Jeffrey Marsh; also a coach and digital creator known for advocating nonbinary and LGBTQ+ visibility and promoting radical self-acceptance Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve all imagined holding a winning lottery ticket, but what happens next? Hear from a man known as The Lottery Lawyer, who shares the most common mistakes people make when trying to claim their winnings. Plus, a man who scored a $28 million Powerball jackpot at just 21 years old reveals what life was like after the win—the highs, the surprises, and some challenges you might not expect. This episode originally aired on October 26, 2024. Suggested episodes: Aftershocks: Life after getting struck by lightning Welcome to the Punderdome! We're entering NYC's punniest pun competition The Guts & Glory Of Getting Into The Guinness Book Of World Records What it's like to win a Nobel Prize with Andrea Ghez and Martin Chalfie GUESTS: Kurt Panouses: ‘The Lottery Lawyer & CPA’, specializing in helping lottery winners claim their prizes and manage their money Timothy Schultz: Winner of a $28 million Powerball jackpot in 1999. Filmmaker, and host of the podcast, “Lottery, Dreams and Fortune” Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you want your funeral to look like? For Bill Edgar, it’s about crashing someone else’s - with their permission - to reveal secrets they didn’t dare share while alive. For Dr. Matt Morgan, it meant holding his own living funeral in the mountains with his closest friends. And for Ghanaian artist Jacob Ashong, it’s about crafting fantasy coffins shaped like cars, animals, and anything else that captures a life. In this episode, three men take us deep into what it means to rethink death, legacy, and the rituals we create to say goodbye. Suggested episodes: The quest for a good deathViews from the end: David MeyersJayson Greene reflects on grief and parenthood nine years after his daughter's death GUESTS: Bill Edgar:The Coffin ConfessorThe Afterlife Confessional Dr. Matt Morgan: A Second Act: What Nearly Dying Teaches Us About Really Living Jacob Ashong (better known as Paa Joe): Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What would you do if someone’s life suddenly depended on you? Meet four everyday people who stepped into crisis and saved a life. A 9-year-old girl calls 911 when her father collapses. A teen athlete performs CPR on a rival player. A librarian administers Narcan to a woman outside the library. A teacher stops the bleeding, and later wrestles with his need to be called a hero. Resources: Stop the Bleed by The American College of Surgeons: training resources, including online classes The American Red Cross: training options, including CPR, first aid, AED, and water safety classes The American Heart Association: training resources, including CPR, first aid, and AED classes Suggested episodes: 911, What’s Your Emergency? Tales From Dispatch More than a bodyguard: Will Geddes on the art of protection GUESTS: Analia and Alex Sinanis: a 9-year-old daughter and her father from New Haven, CT. When Alex, a police officer in North Haven, experienced a medical emergency, Analia called 911 and helped save his life Magnus Miller: an 18-year-old recent high school graduate, who stepped in to help after a fellow athlete went into cardiac arrest during a basketball game in Oklahoma Caroline Mandaro: a Youth Services Librarian in Centereach, NY. She administered Narcan to a woman who had overdosed Patrick O’Connor: a teacher and writer from Massachusetts. He used his Stop the Bleed training after a neighbor's artery was severed by glass Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.