The Moth

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the story behind The Moth?

The story behind The Moth centers on its origins as a storytelling platform dedicated to the art and craft of personal narrative. Founded in 1997 by poet and novelist George Dawes Green in New York City, The Moth takes its name from the moths that swirled around porch lights during Green's childhood in Georgia, where he and his friends would gather to share stories. Green sought to recreate that same sense of warmth, intimacy, and connection through live storytelling events. From its humble beginnings in a small living room, The Moth has grown into an internationally renowned nonprofit organization, hosting over 600 live events a year. Its mission is to honor and celebrate the diversity and commonality of human experience through the simple, powerful act of storytelling. Today, The Moth's live shows, acclaimed podcast, and radio hour provide a stage for both seasoned storytellers and everyday people to share their true stories, fostering empathy, understanding, and community worldwide.

Where can I stream The Moth?

You can stream The Moth through several accessible platforms, making it easy to enjoy its captivating stories from virtually anywhere. The Moth Radio Hour, which features curated stories from live events, is available for streaming on NPR's website and app, as well as through various local public radio stations across the United States. Additionally, The Moth Podcast is available on major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher, allowing listeners to catch up on episodes anytime, anywhere. For those who prefer video content, The Moth's official YouTube channel offers a selection of recorded live performances, giving viewers a taste of the energy and intimacy of their shows. The Moth's own website (themoth.org) also features audio archives, event information, and links to streaming options. Whether you prefer audio or video, The Moth makes it easy to immerse yourself in powerful, true stories told live.

How long is The Moth show?

The length of The Moth show can vary depending on the format and location, but most live Moth events typically run between 90 minutes and two hours. Each event generally features a series of storytellers

Is The Moth an NPR show?

Yes, The Moth is an NPR show. The Moth Radio Hour, one of the organization's most popular offerings, is produced in collaboration with PRX (Public Radio Exchange) and distributed by NPR (National Public Radio). Since its debut in 2009, The Moth Radio Hour has aired on more than 500 public radio stations across the United States, reaching millions of listeners every week. The show presents a curated selection of the best true stories told live at Moth events, often accompanied by insightful commentary and interviews. NPR's involvement has helped The Moth expand its audience and solidify its reputation as a leader in the art of storytelling. In addition to radio broadcasts, The Moth Radio Hour is available as a podcast, further increasing accessibility for fans worldwide. The partnership with NPR ensures high production values and a consistent platform for sharing diverse, compelling stories from all walks of life.

What is the story behind the moth?

The story behind the moth, as it relates to The Moth organization, is both literal and symbolic. Founder George Dawes Green named the organization after the moths that would gather around lights on summer nights during his childhood in Georgia. These moths were silent witnesses to the intimate gatherings where Green and his friends would sit on the porch and share personal stories late into the night. The moth became a symbol of storytelling