cover of episode The Moth Radio Hour: Fear Factor

The Moth Radio Hour: Fear Factor

2024/10/8
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The Moth

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Zaena Tessema recounts her childhood fear of "Derebe," a mysterious figure her mother invoked to ensure obedience. Each sibling had a unique and terrifying interpretation of Derebe, only to discover in adulthood that it was based on a real person, a strange acquaintance of their uncle in Ethiopia.
  • Derebe was used as an invisible babysitter and enforcer of rules.
  • Each sibling had a different perception of Derebe, ranging from a giant spider to a vampire rabbit.
  • The fear of Derebe stemmed from the unknown and the children's imagination.
  • In reality, Derebe was just a weird guy their uncle knew in Ethiopia.

Shownotes Transcript

In this hour, stories of fear -- facing it, outgrowing it, and learning from it. From shadowy childhood demons, to the anxieties of parenthood, and life or death choices in the face of discrimination. This hour is hosted by Moth Executive Producer, Sarah Austin Jenness. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.

Storytellers:

Zaena Tessema's mother invokes a mysterious figure to control her children.Diane Kastiel gets unexpected and unwanted news.Bruce Lee teaches Tito Chavez-Nguyen how to find his way in a new school.Patricia Aro is scared that her children will ask her about death.Chelsea Shorte is pulled over for the first time while masculine presenting.Rufus May fears his own experience with mental health issues will keep him from being a clinical psychologist.

Podcast # 680