Podcast appearances and mentions of renzo gorrio

Elmer Gantry gets an offer to join a notoriously unstable rock n' roll band on a tour of the US. What could possibly go wrong? And the infamous Pine Tar Game of baseball superstar George Brett… told by the bat boy.STORIESThe Real Fleetwood MacElmer Gantry gets an offer to join a notoriously unstable rock n' roll band on a tour of the US. What could possibly go wrong?Thanks, Elmer, for sharing your story with us! Learn more about Elmer Gantry's music in this blog post that producer John Fecile wrote for Aquarium Drunkard.Kirby Gregory still performs with the band Curved Air.Read an extensive history of Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera from the magazine Ugly Things.Listen to a 10-song Spotify playlist that we put together of Elmer's songs and other tunes from the story.Special thanks to Mike Stax, Anja Stax, and David Prest.Original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, produced by John Fecile, artwork by Teo Ducot.The Bat Boy And The Pine Tar BatEvery baseball fan has heard of the superstar hitter George Brett and his infamous Pine Tar Game…but have you heard of the bat boy's version?For more info, check out Daniel Barbarisi's story in the Wall Street Journal.Sound design by Renzo Gorrio, produced by Davey Kim.Season 17 – Episode 25 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

You don't always need words to speak up.Silence SpeaksIn a time when words were dangerous, Grigory found a way to speak up using silence. Mimes. Robots. Mermaids. You'll only hear a story like this on Snap Judgment.Thank you Grigory for sharing your story! Check out Grigory's work on his Youtube...watch Man and the Sea, The Acrobats, Jungle, and Black Square, recorded by Grigory before he left the Soviet Union.Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio.Marcel on the TrainDuring WWII, a young Marcel Marceau helped rescue children from the Nazis. How he did so became the basis of his art.Thanks Marshall for speaking with us! You can find more info about Marshall Paillet's work here. Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio.The Kiss - LIVE at Story FestIn high school, Nimisha Ladva was used to keeping her head down and her test scores up. But she surprises everyone by getting a lead in the school play -- well, that role it comes with a chance to do something she'd never done before: kiss a boy. A huge thank you to Nimisha Ladva. She's a playwright and college essay coach. You can find her at theessayadvantage.com and on instagram @nimishaladva Nimisha Ladva performed this story live at Story Fest. If you haven't heard of Story Fest, it's a national show that finds amazing local writers, journalists, and performing artists to perform their work LIVE on stage. Read about the work they do, see what cities they are coming to, and get tickets at storyfest.org. Season 17 - Episode 24 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

When Antonio and his sister Anita were growing up in Texas, their family didn't have much money. That's why they were so excited to move into their very own home, even if it was a little run-down. It turns out, the home already had an occupant.  Thank you, Antonio and Anita, for sharing your story with Spooked! Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Fire Girls blast their sirens to salute Amika as she is released from prison after seven years. She has no career, no home, no money, and teenage children who have been waiting for their mom to return. But the hardest part of regaining her freedom, would be believing that she is worthy.This episode contains graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners please be advised. Thank you, Amika Mota, for sharing your story with us!Fire Escape, the 6-part series is dropping weekly on the Snap Judgment podcast feed. You can access the bonus episodes here.Fire Escape is a production of Snap Studios at KQED, made in partnership with Audible (previously Wondery). This series was created, written and produced by Anna Sussman.Snap Senior story editors: Mark Ristich and Nancy López. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Original music by Renzo Gorrio and Doug Stuart. Doug Stuart also created the theme song. Sound design and engineering by Miles Lassi.Audible senior story editor: Phyllis Fletcher. Development producer: Eliza Mills. Senior Producers: Clare Chambers, Lauren Dee and Mandy Gorenstein. Managing Producer: Sarah Mathis. Executive producers: Glynn Washington, Mark Ristich, Marshall Lewy, Morgan Jones, George Lavender and Jen Sargent.Special thanks to Adizah Eghan, Kathryn Styer Martínez, Pat Mesiti-Miller, Allison MacAdam, Catherine Winter and the San Francisco Fire Department.Season 17 - Episode 22 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As wildland fires burn hotter and stronger across California, Amika and the incarcerated firefighters are put in extreme danger. At a massive, out of control fire, Amika must defy orders for the sake of the women on her crew.This episode contains graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners please be advised. Thank you, Amika Mota, for sharing your story with us!Fire Escape, the 6-part series is dropping weekly on the Snap Judgment podcast feed. You can access the bonus episodes here.Fire Escape is a production of Snap Studios at KQED, made in partnership with Audible (previously Wondery). This series was created, written and produced by Anna Sussman.Snap Senior story editors: Mark Ristich and Nancy López. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Original music by Renzo Gorrio and Doug Stuart. Doug Stuart also created the theme song. Sound design and engineering by Miles Lassi.Audible senior story editor: Phyllis Fletcher. Development producer: Eliza Mills. Senior Producers: Clare Chambers, Lauren Dee and Mandy Gorenstein. Managing Producer: Sarah Mathis. Executive producers: Glynn Washington, Mark Ristich, Marshall Lewy, Morgan Jones, George Lavender and Jen Sargent.Special thanks to Adizah Eghan, Kathryn Styer Martínez, Pat Mesiti-Miller, Allison MacAdam, Catherine Winter and the San Francisco Fire Department.Season 17 - Episode 21 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Amika and the Fire Girls are called to the scene of a terrible crash and need to rescue the passengers from the wreckage. Amika realizes the driver of the car is intoxicated. While saving his life, she reckons with lives lost and the harsh future awaiting the young patient. Back at the firehouse, Amika's crew are called out to a Christmas Eve emergency. This episode contains strong language and graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners please be advised. Thank you, Amika Mota, for sharing your story with us!Fire Escape, the 6-part series is dropping weekly on the Snap Judgment podcast feed. You can access the bonus episodes here. Fire Escape is a production of Snap Studios at KQED, made in partnership with Audible (previously Wondery). This series was created, written and produced by Anna Sussman. Snap Senior story editors: Mark Ristich and Nancy López. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Original music by Renzo Gorrio and Doug Stuart. Doug Stuart also created the theme song. Sound design and engineering by Miles Lassi.  Audible senior story editor: Phyllis Fletcher. Development producer: Eliza Mills. Senior Producers: Clare Chambers, Lauren Dee and Mandy Gorenstein. Managing Producer: Sarah Mathis. Executive producers: Glynn Washington, Mark Ristich, Marshall Lewy, Morgan Jones, George Lavender and Jen Sargent.Special thanks to Adizah Eghan, Kathryn Styer Martínez, Pat Mesiti-Miller, Allison MacAdam, Catherine Winter and the San Francisco Fire Department.Season 17 - Episode 20 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

At the firehouse, Amika plans a drop – a secret plan to sneak forbidden cell phones to her friends still on the inside. She begins to worry she might get caught. And then she's called to an emergency involving one of her jailers.This episode contains strong language and graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners please be advised. Thank you, Amika Mota, for sharing your story with us!Fire Escape, the 6-part series is dropping weekly on the Snap Judgment podcast feed. You can access the bonus episodes here. Fire Escape is a production of Snap Studios at KQED, made in partnership with Audible (previously Wondery). This series was created, written and produced by Anna Sussman. Snap Senior story editors: Mark Ristich and Nancy López. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Original music by Renzo Gorrio and Doug Stuart. Doug Stuart also created the theme song. Sound design and engineering by Miles Lassi.  Audible senior story editor: Phyllis Fletcher. Development producer: Eliza Mills. Senior Producers: Clare Chambers, Lauren Dee and Mandy Gorenstein. Managing Producer: Sarah Mathis. Executive producers: Glynn Washington, Mark Ristich, Marshall Lewy, Morgan Jones, George Lavender and Jen Sargent.Special thanks to Adizah Eghan, Kathryn Styer Martínez, Pat Mesiti-Miller, Allison MacAdam, Catherine Winter and the San Francisco Fire Department.Season 17 - Episode 19 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Amika is thrown in the hole for forty days. Locked in a windowless cell, she can hear the women through the walls losing their sanity. To protect herself, Amika must shut down all connections with everyone she loves: her cellies, her mom, and even her kids. The world looks dark until she sees a small light that may illuminate a path to her new life when she gets a call from the firehouse.   This episode contains strong language and graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners please be advised. Thank you, Amika Mota, for sharing your story with us!Fire Escape, the 6-part series is dropping weekly on the Snap Judgment podcast feed. You can access the bonus episodes here. Fire Escape is a production of Snap Studios at KQED, made in partnership with Audible (previously Wondery). This series was created, written and produced by Anna Sussman. Snap Senior story editors: Mark Ristich and Nancy López. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Original music by Renzo Gorrio and Doug Stuart. Doug Stuart also created the theme song. Sound design and engineering by Miles Lassi.  Audible senior story editor: Phyllis Fletcher. Development producer: Eliza Mills. Senior Producers: Clare Chambers, Lauren Dee and Mandy Gorenstein. Managing Producer: Sarah Mathis. Executive producers: Glynn Washington, Mark Ristich, Marshall Lewy, Morgan Jones, George Lavender and Jen Sargent.Special thanks to Adizah Eghan, Kathryn Styer Martínez, Pat Mesiti-Miller, Allison MacAdam, Catherine Winter and the San Francisco Fire Department.Season 17 - Episode 18 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

How did Amika Mota go from a midwife and mother of three to a prisoner inside one of the largest women's prisons on Earth? Handcuffed to a hospital bed, awaiting trial, Amika tries to come to grips with the tragic crash that cost one man his life and took her away from her children. Inside the Chowchilla prison walls, she faces the "green cops" and the threat of solitary confinement. Outside the walls sits Firehouse Five, the home of the legendary crew of incarcerated firefighters called the Fire Girls.This episode contains descriptions of a car crash & strong language. Sensitive listeners please be advised. Thank you, Amika Mota, for sharing your story with us!Fire Escape, the 6-part series is dropping weekly on the Snap Judgment podcast feed. You can access the bonus episodes here. Fire Escape is a production of Snap Studios at KQED, made in partnership with Audible (previously Wondery). This series was created, written and produced by Anna Sussman. Snap Senior story editors: Mark Ristich and Nancy López. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Original music by Renzo Gorrio and Doug Stuart. Doug Stuart also created the theme song. Sound design and engineering by Miles Lassi.  Audible senior story editor: Phyllis Fletcher. Development producer: Eliza Mills. Senior Producers: Clare Chambers, Lauren Dee and Mandy Gorenstein. Managing Producer: Sarah Mathis. Executive producers: Glynn Washington, Mark Ristich, Marshall Lewy, Morgan Jones, George Lavender and Jen Sargent.Special thanks to Adizah Eghan, Kathryn Styer Martínez, Pat Mesiti-Miller, Allison MacAdam, Catherine Winter and the San Francisco Fire Department.Season 17 - Episode 17 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Strapped in a harness, on the edge of a mountain, the snow bridge lets out a hollow crack as it gives way. The story of two climbers whose fates are intertwined by a length of rope.Big thanks to Jim Davidson for sharing his story!Jim wrote a book with Kevin Vaughan about surviving the fall on Mt. Rainier, called The Ledge. He also wrote a book about his experiences during and after the Nepal earthquake called The Next Everest. Check them out!Produced by Justin Kramon, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot. Snap Classic - Season 17 - Episode 16 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Zaki is in Kabul running an indie newspaper called The Etilaatroz. The Taliban are approaching the city, and the entire newsroom is on edge. But the question in Zaki's mind is, “How do we save the paper?” Plus, a story from a journalist who decides what belongs in her bag.Last Paper StandingThis story contains graphic imagery, sensitive listeners please be advised.Thank you to Zaki Daryabi for sharing your story with Snap! Extra thanks to Luft Ali Sultani and the entire team at Etilaatroz.If you want to learn more about Etilaatroz and their journey to cover the news, visit their website or watch a documentary about their days in Kabul on Youtube for free.Produced by Shaina Shealy, edited by Nancy Lopez, original score by Renzo Gorrio.Lost BaggageFatima decides what belongs in her bag. Thank you Fatima for sharing your story! You can see her reporting from Afghanistan on topics like women's rights and education in The New York Times.Season 17 - Episode 14 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A Los Angeles radio show prank-calls random French citizens and unintentionally reach le président. A hotheaded comedian gets into a fight. Plus, a seven-year parking spot war. The French ConnectionA Los Angeles radio show prank-calls random French citizens and unintentionally reach le président. A very big thank you to Ralph Garman & Kevin Ryder for sharing their story with Snap! Radio rules.Produced by Max Jungreis, original score by Renzo Gorrio, edited by Nancy López + Anna Sussman. Choke ZoneMoshe Kasher tells a little story about conflict resolution. Thank you, Moshe, for sharing your story! Check out Moshe's memoir: Subculture Vulture: A Memoir in Six Scenes Produced by David Exumé, original score by Clay Xavier.The Parking Space WarA seven-year vendetta stemming from a parking spot war. Told live at the Black Cat by DC Benny.Thank you DC Benny for sharing this story! Big thanks also to 800 Pound Gorilla Media. Follow DC Benny at... Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, or on YouTube. Stay Connected with 800 Pound Gorilla -- check out their Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, or on YouTube.Season 17 - Episode 11 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

When the man in charge of a small, insular northern Ohio town wreaks havoc on his followers, a young Amish boy with a passion for good hair tries to clean up the mess.Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Renzo Gorrio. Season 17 - Episode 10 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

An ecologist in Maine fears she must be crazy because she communicates with animals. Then a tiny, collared Dove told her he could read her mind. And – a man in Alaska hears a rumor about the elusive blue bear. He never gave it much thought until a friend convinced him to search for one. We're wrapping up the FEVER series this week! Tune in. STORIESWhen Doves CryAn ecologist in Maine fears she must be crazy because she communicates with animals. Then a tiny, collared Dove told her he could read her mind. Thank you Sara and Lily B for sharing your story with us!Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Nicholas Marks. The Blue BearLynn Schooler grew up in Alaska hearing rumor after rumor about the elusive blue bear. He never gave it much thought until a friend convinced him they go out searching for one. What Lynn ended up finding was, of course, something much different.Thanks Lynn for sharing your story with Snap! For more on Lynn Schooler's work check out his Facebook page.Produced by Nancy Lopez, sound design by Renzo Gorrio and Davey Kim.Season 17 - Episode 9 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Could you choose a lover for the love of your life? Our Fever Series continues with more stories from the heart -- of the heart.STORIES Loves ActuallyA Colorado couple explore uncharted territory when their idyllic marriage gets hit with a curve ball.Thank you to Mil and Jan Markle for sitting down with Snap, opening up your hearts and sharing your story!Produced by Regina Bediako, edited by Anna Sussman, original score by Renzo Gorrio.Love RivalsAfter a whirlwind romance, Brian and Vanessa get married and move to Kinshasa. Everything is going well until she shows up.Thank you Vanessa Woods for sharing your story! Produced by Mira Burt-Wintonick, Cristal Duhaime and Jodie Taylor. This story comes to us from CBC's Love Me. Listen to more Love Me on any podcast platform. Season 17 - Episode 7 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

An Iranian American professor is on a date in the hills outside Tehran. She hears the thunder of galloping, and what comes over the crest will ignite an unbridled passion in her -  defining her future and explaining her past. Plus, an urban legend about a chicken that turns out to be true.This is our final week of the Tooth & Nail series -- stay tuned next month for our collection of love stories in February... Fever. Do not miss it.No ReinsAn Iranian American professor is on a date in the hills outside Tehran. She hears the thunder of galloping, and what comes over the crest will ignite an unbridled passion in her -  defining her future and explaining her past.This story contains state brutality and sexual situations, sensitive listeners please be advised.Thank you Pardis for speaking with Snap! Check out her book --Book of Queens -- all about her time on horseback in Iran. Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff. Headless ChickenSome schoolyard stories are true, and so are some urban legends.This story contains descriptions of a chicken without a head, please take care while listening.For more information about Mike The Headless Chicken, including Fruita, Colorado's annual Mike The Headless Chicken Festival, check out miketheheadlesschicken.orgProduced by Joe Rosenberg, original score by Renzo Gorrio with additional instrumentation by Andrew Vickers.Season 17 - Episode 4 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

What if your sister -- the one your parents raised you with, the one that shared your toys -- what if she didn't just have different hair, or a slightly different nose, but was an entirely different species altogether? Hannah Friedman experiences the Law of the Jungle firsthand in the (dis)comfort of her family home. STORIESMonkey SisterA huge thank you to Hannah Friedman and her parents Alison Pascoe & Dean Friedman for sharing their story with Snap!Hannah is a tv and film writer, producer and composer based in Los Angeles. To find out more about her life growing up with Amelia the monkey, check out  Hannah's memoir “Everything Sucks” Produced by Bo Walsh, edited by Regina Bediako, original score by Renzo Gorrio. Photo courtesy of Alison Pascoe. The Gift Horse Tim Snyder thought he knew horses. He'd been around horses his entire life. Then he was introduced to a disabled horse that completely changed his life.Thanks Tim for sharing your story! Check out Tim's book "The Ghost Horse"Produced by Anna Sussman, sound design by Renzo Gorrio.Season 17 - Episode 3 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A severed head turns up in a small rural town. While police investigate this as a crime, they look at disturbed graves, search for missing people — suspect a killer. But the forensic artist on the case has a very different theory for how the head ended up in the woods.This story contains references to forensic material, sensitive listeners please be advised.Thank you to Michelle Vitali & Mike O'Brien for sharing this story with Snap.Produced by Nancy López, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.Happy New Year Snap Nation -- thank you for listening in 2025! We love you!Snap Classic - Season 16 - Episode 61 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Scott Lechner is the king of Christmas trees in Manhattan, nicknamed the “Pontiff of Soho.” But when his business runs afoul of the mob, he gets an offer that he can't refuse. And a covert operative is assigned to extract a high-level target from Russia, and it's about to ruin his holiday plans.STORIESThe Christmas Tree MafiaScott Lechner is the king of Christmas trees in Manhattan, nicknamed the “Pontiff of Soho.” But when his business runs afoul of the mob, he gets an offer that he can't refuse. The crazy true story of the New York Christmas tree industry, full of turf wars, karate fights, and the mafia.This story contains explicit language, sensitive listeners please be advised.This story is dedicated to the memory of Scott Lechner, the pontiff of Soho and the emperor of New York city treemen. Thanks as well to Russ and Little Scott.Produced by Ilana Strauss, John Fecile & Annie Nguyen, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.Secrets in SiberiaMike Ramsdell is a covert operative for the federal government. He's assigned to capture and extract a high-level target from Russia, but the mission goes horribly wrong.Find Mike's book here.Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Renzo Gorrio.Snap Classic - Season 16 – Episode 60 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

When Maribel loses her little brother Santi, her very best friend in the world, she learns that love is sometimes stronger than death. We travel to Mexico for this very special Spooked tale.Thank you, Maribel Placencia, from the bottom of our hearts, for sharing your extraordinary story. Big love to you and your family.Produced by Nancy Lopéz, original score by Renzo Gorrio, scouted by Erick Yañez, artwork by Sanaa Khan. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

German and his family are stuck behind the walls of a rusty old pencil factory in the jungle. When a Youtuber stumbles onto the scene with a camera, he may be their only hope.Thank you, to German, Eva, and Sasha. Thanks also to Julia Neusner.You can see more of Caya's documentaries about tech and society on his Youtube channel “Slide Bean.”This story will be featured on Today Explained on 12.23.25, tune in!The Banished By Bargain project is a great resource to learn more about the Trump administration's third-country deportations.Produced by John Fecile and Caya, edited by Nancy Lopez, original music by Renzo Gorrio.Season 16 - Episode 59 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A teenage hacker inspired by “Mr. Robot” takes on his principal, teachers, and the Board of Education. And a night-shift doctor shares a story of life after death. STORIESCode YellowA teenage hacker inspired by “Mr. Robot” takes on his principal, teachers, and the Board of Education.This story contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised. This piece was adapted from the podcast, Darknet Diaries. Listen to the full story, called Finn.Produced by Jack Rhysider with assistance from Nancy Lopez, original score by Renzo Gorrio. Artwork by Teo Ducot.The Lazarus EffectA night-shift doctor shares a story of life after death.This story comes to us from the podcast, The Nocturnists, and was performed live in San Francisco in 2018. You can listen to the full story, called The Lazarus Effect.Special thanks to Emily Silverman, Ana Adlerstein, Ali Block, Adelaide Papazolou, Marina Poole, Kirk Klocke, and the storyteller, Joe Sills.Snap Classic – Season 16 Episode 56 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Cover it with darkness, and night, and shadows, and lies… hush. But some secrets are like seeds. Welcome to the garden.STORIESLibbyJennifer and her daughter Taylor both know their family home is haunted… but they don't want to share that secret, even with each other. A big thank you to Jennifer and Taylor for sharing your story with us! Sound design by Bells Atlas.No Voy a Tener NietosMaria's mother always wanted a son. And when Maria had a son, of her own, her mother didn't get enough time with him. So when she died, she made sure to came back to be with her beloved nieto.Gracias Maria for sharing your story with Spooked.Produced by Eliza Smith, Anna Sussman, and Shaina Shealy. Original music by Renzo Gorrio and Leon Morimoto. Artwork by Sanaa Khan.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A fisherman down on his luck finds gold at the bottom of the sea. It's only after his treasure hunt is underway that he discovers what is truly valuable deep down.BIG thanks to Joe Pennisi for sharing your story with Snap.This story would not have been possible if not for the amazing, on-the-ground reporting work of Tara Duggan, Jason Fagone, and Santiago Mejia who first told this incredible story for the San Francisco Chronicle.Produced by Nikka Singh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot. Snap Classic - Season 16 – Episode 53 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

When a young man is told he is going deaf, he sets out on a challenge to memorize the songs that defined his life. He had no idea that those songs would come back to him in the most unexpected way. And a musical savant shares the inner workings of his amazing gift. STORIES The Soundtrack of Silence When a young man is told is he going deaf, he sets out on a challenge to memorize the songs that defined his life. He had no idea that those songs would come back to him in the most unexpected way.Thank you, Matt Hay, for sharing your story! A version of this story aired on KQED's Q'ed Up.Produced by April Dembosky. Sound Design by April Dembosky, Leon Morimoto & Renzo Gorrio.Sudden Savant Although most musicians spend decades honing their craft, musical genius Derek Amato never had to practice a day in his life. One day, he just sat down at the piano and his fingers began to fly across the keys with ease.As an immediate musical genius, Derek is one of the few people on Earth diagnosed with Acquired Musical Savant Syndrome. Derek takes us into the inner workings of his amazing gift.Produced by Anna Sussman &  Pat Mesiti-Miller. Original score & sound design by Pat Mesiti-Miller.Season 16 - Episode 52 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The group from Union Point moves into their new homes on the tiny plot of land near Lake Merritt. They run their own security and decide who comes into their space. But then, on a Monday morning in March, we hear devastating news…A fire burns through the plot of land on E12th. Is this the end of the experiment, or will the group keep building?This episode contains strong language & graphic imagery. Please take care while listening. Thank you to the entire cast from A Tiny Plot for sharing your story with us.Hosted and produced by Shaina Shealy. Edited by Anna Sussman, original music by Renzo Gorrio, engineering by Pat Mesiti-Miller. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Executive Producers: Glynn Washington and Mark Ristich. Artwork: Teo Ducot.Special thanks: Jen Chien, Catherine Winter, the City of Oakland, Sweetie at the Travel Inn, Ryan Finnegan, Will Craft, JP Dobrin, Thomas Brouns, Sukey Lewis, Alistair Boone, The Street Spirit, KQED legal, and Ott House Audio.Episode 5 of 5. You can listen to the entire series now!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Mama D, President Matt, and the rest of the group are finally seeing their experiment in co-governance take shape. They built their security sheds and saw their tiny homes for the first time. But when Nino Parker stepped onto the sidewalk in a neck brace, on crutches, it was clear that the group was about to face a whole new level of chaos.  This episode contains strong language & graphic imagery. Please take care while listening. Thank you to the entire cast from A Tiny Plot for sharing your story with us.A Tiny Plot is a new 5-part series from KQED's Snap Studios, hosted and produced by Shaina Shealy. Edited by Anna Sussman, original music by Renzo Gorrio, engineering by Pat Mesiti-Miller. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Executive Producers: Glynn Washington and Mark Ristich. Artwork: Teo Ducot.Special thanks: Jen Chien, Catherine Winter, the City of Oakland, Sweetie at the Travel Inn, Ryan Finnegan, Will Craft, JP Dobrin, Thomas Brouns, Sukey Lewis, Alistair Boone, The Street Spirit, KQED legal, and Ott House Audio.Episode 4 of 5. Listen on any podcast platform, right here on Snap Judgment!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Mama D sees that the future of the experiment is up to her and what she decides: Lead the group to the plot of land offered by the city, hope and pray for a magical new plot, or disband the group and dissolve the experiment. Following weeks of indecision, Mama D makes a choice. And while everyone from the group was hard at work to turn their dream into reality, they didn't seem to notice a major problem with the set-up. A fault line of sorts.  This episode contains strong language & graphic imagery. Please take care while listening. Big thanks to the entire cast from A Tiny Plot for sharing your worlds with us.A Tiny Plot is a new 5-part series from KQED's Snap Studios, hosted and produced by Shaina Shealy. Edited by Anna Sussman, original music by Renzo Gorrio, engineering by Pat Mesiti-Miller. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Executive Producers: Glynn Washington and Mark Ristich. Artwork: Teo Ducot.Specials thanks: Jen Chien, Catherine Winter, the City of Oakland, Sweetie at the Travel Inn, Ryan Finnegan, Will Craft, JP Dobrin, Thomas Brouns, Sukey Lewis, Alistair Boone, The Street Spirit, KQED legal, and Ott House Audio.Episode 3 of 5. Episodes drop on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Listen on any podcast platform, right here on Snap Judgment!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The standoff between Public Works and the group from Union Point Park ends with a handshake -- a deal to build a new kind of housing community funded by the city where homeless residents make their own rules. But right away, the civility of this agreement seems to break down. And after months of waiting, the group from Union Point Park finally gets a plot of land on E12th street for their radical experiment. But there's a big problem with the land. It's something that leaves the future of this experiment in limbo.This episode contains strong language & graphic imagery. Please take care while listening. A Tiny Plot is a new 5-part series from KQED's Snap Studios. Host and Reporter Shaina Shealy takes listeners inside an encampment in Oakland for an against-all-odds story about scarcity, community, and the complexity of building something new from the margins of a broken system. What happens when people who've been shut out of a system that has failed them decide to take the lead? Disaster, and unexpected beauty. Big thanks to the entire cast from A Tiny Plot for sharing your worlds with us.Hosted and produced by Shaina Shealy. Edited by Anna Sussman, original music by Renzo Gorrio, engineering by Pat Mesiti-Miller. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Executive Producers: Glynn Washington and Mark Ristich. Artwork: Teo Ducot.Specials thanks: Jen Chien, Catherine Winter, the City of Oakland, Sweetie at the Travel Inn, Ryan Finnegan, Will Craft, JP Dobrin, Thomas Brouns, Sukey Lewis, Alistair Boone, The Street Spirit, KQED legal, and Ott House Audio.Episode 2 of 5. Episodes drop on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Listen on any podcast platform, right here on Snap Judgment!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

An abandoned gold mine, an empty old church, a sight no one will believe.STORIESThe MineGold miner Shannon Poe has been in a lot of scary situations. He's run headlong towards a cougar, fallen out of trees, and been caught in a shootout. But nothing quite compares to what he experienced in an abandoned gold mine last fall.The MissionAn empty old church. An open door. A sight no one will believe.Thanks, Jenni, for sharing your story with us! Jenni Prange Boran is a screenwriter living in Tacoma, WA. This episode was produced by Adizah Eghan, Eliza Smith, and Anna Sussman. Original score by Leon Morimoto. Audio support by Renzo Gorrio. Artwork by Sanaa Khan.

Using broken refrigerators, mattresses and dishwashers, residents of Union Point Park barricade their tent-city. And they fight for an extraordinary idea: their own plot of land from the city, where they could live in community and set their own rules, on their own terms.A Tiny Plot is a new 5-part series from KQED's Snap Studios. Host and Reporter Shaina Shealy takes listeners inside an encampment in Oakland for an against-all-odds story about scarcity, community, and the complexity of building something new from the margins of a broken system. What happens when people who've been shut out of a system that has failed them decide to take the lead? Disaster, and unexpected beauty. This episode contains strong language & graphic imagery. Please take care while listening. Huge love & thanks to the entire cast from A Tiny Plot for sharing your worlds with us.Hosted and produced by Shaina Shealy. Edited by Anna Sussman, original music by Renzo Gorrio, engineering by Pat Mesiti-Miller. Director of Production: Marisa Dodge. Executive Producers: Glynn Washington and Mark Ristich. Artwork: Teo Ducot.Specials thanks: Jen Chien, Catherine Winter, the City of Oakland, Sweetie at the Travel Inn, Ryan Finnegan, Will Craft, JP Dobrin, Thomas Brouns, Sukey Lewis, Alistair Boone, The Street Spirit, KQED legal, and Ott House Audio.Episode 1 of 5. Episodes drop on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Listen on any podcast platform, right here on Snap Judgment!  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Should you heed your dreams if they foretell danger? How can you tell the difference between dreams and what might become reality?STORIESDenver Deja VuJodi is about to discover that the man of her dreams is a walking, talking nightmare. Thank you, Jodi, for sharing your story!Produced by Chris Hambrick, original score by Lauryn Newson, artwork by Teo Ducot.Lady and the ScampWhen someone in a hockey mask starts following Silvana in her dreams, she realizes that sometimes you don't want all your dreams to come true. Thank you, Silvana, for sharing your story with us. Produced by Annie Nguyen & Nathalie Chicha, original score by Renzo Gorrio.

300 people spend a week on a plane with Rihanna to attend seven concerts, in seven countries, over seven days. And when morale is low among a group of paratroopers, their Sergeant takes them on an unexpected trip. STORIESDiamonds in the SkyFans and journalists embark on a seven-show tour with Rihanna… in seven countries, over seven days, on a Boeing 777, to celebrate her seventh album in seven years. Did we mention this happened seven years ago?This story contains explicit language. Sensitive listeners please be advised. Special thanks to Kristen Gwynne, Lawrence Bull, and Elizabeth Nakano.Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio.Acid JumpWhen morale is low among a group of paratroopers, their Sergeant takes them on an unexpected trip. Check out Ray's podcast, “What's Ray Saying?” and follow him on Twitter @WhatsRaySaying!Produced by Adizah Eghan, original score by Leon Morimoto.Season 16 - Episode 35 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Skagway is a tiny, remote town in Alaska. The population of living souls hovers around 1,000. And by all accounts, there maybe just as many souls stuck behind, haunting the place.STORIESFrances Cori suspects she's got a second roommate who she can't see, and who may very well be contacting her from beyond the veil.Lydia The wait staff at the Red Onion Saloon help uncover the sad story of their notorious ghost, Lydia.Thank you to our amazing storytellers for sharing your truth with us! These stories were produced by Eliza Smith, Anna Sussman, and the ghostbusters at Snap Judgment. Original music by Renzo Gorrio, Leon Morimoto, and Pat Mesiti-Miller. Artwork by Sanaa Khan. 

Cursed cat bones. Dead dogs. A haunted pond. Master storyteller Todd Narron is our tour guide as we explore the mysterious, spooky American South.STORIESBarbara Nichols PondEver since a little girl died a watery death, the kids in Johnston County steer clear of the pond. Years later, Todd thinks that she might just be avenging her untimely end.The Cat Bone CurseTodd's uncle was one mean son of a biscuit. But long after he's dead and gone, his descendants worry that his meanness might rub off on them.Thank you Todd, for sharing your stories! If you want more stories from Todd, check out his books, Country Stories of Ghosts and Bad Men and Country Stories of Ghosts and Bad Men: Series 2 - The Dead Ones.Produced by Anna Sussman, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Sanaa Khan.

She's stunning grey, sleek as a race car, and stronger than all the boys. Her name is Winning Colors and for Dino and Miami she's the long shot of a lifetime.This story contains strong language and includes descriptions of gambling, sensitive listeners please be advised.If gambling has become a problem for you or for someone you know, you can call 1-800-GAMBLER (426-2537) to seek free, confidential, 24/7 problem gambling assistance.A huge thank you to Mark “Miami” Paul for sharing his story with Snap!Wondering what happened to Winning Colors? After her 1988 Kentucky Derby crown the big grey filly retired the following year with eight career wins. In 2000, she was inducted into the U.S. National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. In 2008, at the age of 23 Winning Colors was laid to rest in Lexington, Kentucky.To find out more about Miami and Winning Colors' story – check out Miami's book, “The Greatest Gambling Story Ever Told” Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.Snap Classic – Season 16– Episode 32 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

There are times when you are supposedly all alone. And then you see her, him or it out of the corner of your eye... watching.STORIES"The Night Mother"It's the middle of the night. You're not even 15, and you're home alone with your little brother. You're waiting for your mom to come home. What would happen if she didn't make it? "Voice In The Woods"When the voice says "Stop" you stay perfectly still.  And when the voice says "Run!" you had better run.This is the first episode of Spooked ever! These stories were produced by Eliza Smith and the ghostbusters at Snap Judgment. Original music by Renzo Gorrio, Leon Morimoto, and Pat Mesiti-Miller. Artwork by Teo Ducot. 

Catherine is headed to her first ever archaeological dig with her college. She's as happy as can be, living out her dream of being a real-life Indiana Jones. But when she wakes up in the middle of the night and sees a ghostly figure standing over her, watching her sleep, she starts to wonder if her lifelong dream is actually a nightmare.Thank you, Catherine, for telling us your terrifying tale!Produced by Alyia Yates, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot. 

Detective Bob Snow never could have imagined that the toughest case of his entire career, would be an investigation into his own past… life.  This story comes to Spooked from our sister podcast, Snap Judgment. The Snap Judgment radio show and podcast mixes real stories with original music to produce cinematic, dramatic audio. It's storytelling… with a beat. You can listen to Snap Judgment on any podcast platform!Thanks Bob for sharing your story. Check out Bob Snow's books.Produced by Liz Mak, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

Sir Dyno is the Chicano Eazy-E, the king of lowrider car shows, an up-and-coming gangsta rapper straight outta Northern California. But when he gets the money to finance his next CD, he has no idea that the same music that made him a legend will also lead to his downfall.This story contains drug references and offensive language, sensitive listeners please be advised.Thank you, David Rocha, for sharing your story with us. Thanks also to Sharon Rocha, Justin Berton & Julia Reynolds.David Rocha left prison in June 2009. He became a pastor and started a church in Modesto called House of Rest.Produced by John Fecile. This story featured the music of David Rocha, the original score is by Renzo Gorrio. Artwork by Teo Ducot.Snap Classic – Season 16 – Episode 26 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Gerald carved his name in concrete behind the house. And now, he keeps trying to say hi to the new family that moved into the house. The problem? Gerald's dead. Thank you, Susan, Ben, Cristina, and Stephanie for sharing your story with Spooked.Produced by Zoe Ferrigno & Chris Hambrick, with assistance from Greta Weber. Original score by Renzo Gorrio. Artwork by Teo Ducot.

This week on Snap, we go to Guadalajara, Mexico where Dante meets Jorge. As they start to understand each other they soon discover that what brings them together also sets them apart.This episode contains sexual references, sensitive listeners please be advised.Thank you, Dante and Jorge, for sharing your story!The Spanish version of this episode is available at CUIR: Historias Disidentes, a non-fiction podcast that showcases stories from the Latinx LGBTQ+ community and from people who challenge the way we think about love, identity, sex and pleasure. You can listen to more CUIR episodes anywhere you listen to podcasts and on the CUIR website: https://estonoesradio.mx/programas/cuirJorge was voiced by Terry Holiday, one of the most prominent trans actresses in Mexico. You can read more about Terry in this Vice article (in Spanish).Produced by Erick Yáñez, edited by Nancy López. Reported by Dante Ureta. Original score by Renzo Gorrio. Art by Teo Ducot.Snap Classic - Season 16 – Episode 24 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

After years of fighting battles as a child soldier, a Sudanese man finds himself a refugee in Australia. As he struggles to overcome his past, he comes face-to-face with his childhood tormentor on a TV show.This episode recounts real events that happened to a child soldier, including graphic scenes inside a prison camp, listener discretion is advised.Thank you, Ayik, for sharing your incredible story with us! To learn more about Ayik's life, check out his memoir, The Lost Boy. You can also catch Ayik on Harrow, a crime drama on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.Produced by Ruby Schwartz, edited by Nancy López. Special thanks to Wendy Love. Original score by Renzo Gorrio. Artwork by Teo Ducot.This week's music spotlight features the song “Rocketeer” from our very own Renzo Gorrio! Renzo scores so many stories on Snap (like this one!) and he produces under the name Hydroplane. Listen to “Rocketeer” from his album “Rockets” available on cassette, vinyl, and digitally on Bandcamp.Snap Classic – Season 16 – Episode 23 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Have you ever wanted something so badly you'd do anything to make it happen? Sixteen-year-old Mohamed decides to dig deep in his religion to take the next step with his crush. There's no love like young love… especially when it's a secret. This story contains strong language, discusses sexuality, and mentions corporal punishment. Please take care while listening.BIG thanks to Mohamed Ali for sharing his story with us! Mohamed is an artist and comedian, he just got back to Canada after spending the last few years working and performing in Southeast Asia. Check out his Instagram!Special thanks to Zahra Noorbakhsh. Big thanks as well to Zaiba Hasan & her crew from the podcast Mommying While Muslim.Produced by Regina Bediako, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.Snap Music Spotlight: “Honest” by Jada Imani (produced by Dakim)Jada Imani is an East St. Louis-born, Bay Area-raised Hip-Hop R&B artist and organizer. In addition to a whole bunch of great music, Jada recently launched a new product line called “Good For The Soul”. Be sure to check out her Patreon and follow her on social media!This song comes to us from the compilation Water For The Town Vol. 4, a project series from SmartBomb created to raise mutual aid and awareness for various organizations and grassroots movements doing vital work right here in Oakland.The song is produced by Dakim, be sure to check out more of Dakim's music and follow them on Instagram!Season 16 – Episode 22 - Snap Classic  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

When the biggest baddest bird in the wild is on the brink of death, one couple will do anything to bring her back home. Snap presents, “Birdzilla: Mother of Eagles.” A Canadian love story.This episode discusses the subject of death and contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised.Thank you, Murdo Messer, for sharing your story with us! And all of us here at Snap are thinking fondly of the late Dr. Helene Van Doninck, wherever you are, thank you.Learn more about the Cobequid Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre! Check out animal photos and videos on their Facebook and Twitter.Produced by Nikka Singh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.Snap Classic - Season 16 – Episode 20 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A rookie pilot, a prominent politician, a cop, and a criminal find themselves enduring freezing temperatures in the remote wilderness after their plane crashes in Northern Canada. A huge thank you to Erik Vogel, the late Larry Shaben, and his daughter Carol Shaben for sharing this story with Snap!There is so much more we are not able to share with you about Erik and Larry's experience. To find out more about what transpired with Wapiti Flight 402, checkout Carol Shaben's book, “Into the Abyss,” from Grand Central Publishing.Special thanks to Nikka Singh for his help with this story.Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.Season 16 – Episode 16 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

What if you invented something the whole world knows but someone else took the credit? This week on Snap, we uncover the story of Krazy George, a shy wood-shop teacher turned professional cheerleader, who sparked a phenomenon from the bleachers of Oakland Coliseum. And -- the story of the infamous Pine Tar Game told by the bat boy.STORIESThe WaveWhat if you invented something the whole world knows but someone else took the credit? This week on Snap, we uncover the story of Krazy George, a shy wood-shop teacher turned professional cheerleader, who sparked a phenomenon from the bleachers of Oakland Coliseum.A huge thank you to the man, the myth, the legend… Krazy George Henderson for sharing your story. At 80 years young, George is still banging his drum for the Spartans at his alma mater, San Jose State. He also just celebrated his 50th season cheering professionally for the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer. To read more about the life and times of George, check out his memoir “Still Krazy After All These Cheers” Produced by Bo Walsh. Edited by Anna Sussman. Original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff. Artwork by Teo Ducot.The Bat Boy and the Pine Tar GameEvery baseball fan has heard of the superstar hitter George Brett and his infamous Pine Tar Game… but have you heard of the bat boy's version?For more info, check out Daniel Barbarisi's story in the Wall Street Journal.Produced by Davey Kim. Sound Design by Renzo Gorrio.Season 16 - Episode 15 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A young filmmaker documents a political showdown between an authoritarian president and a brave Ugandan pop singer. When he aims his lens, he has no idea the shot he's about to take. And – the story of people who come face-to-face one night in the Canyonlands of southern Utah. STORIESThe ShotA young filmmaker documents a political showdown between an authoritarian president and a brave Ugandan pop singer. When he aims his lens, he has no idea the shot he's about to take.Huge thanks to the amazing Moses Bwayo! Moses's film ‘The People's President' was nominated for an Academy Award, for best documentary. It received a ten minute standing ovation at its premier at the Venice film festival. Produced by Anna Sussman and John Fecile. Original score by Renzo Gorrio, edited by Nancy Lopez, artwork by Teo Ducot.The Incident at Poison Spider MesaThe story of two men who come face to face one night in the canyonlands of southern Utah.Thank you, Brody, for sharing your story. Brody Young is a Utah State Park Ranger and motivational speaker, helping people figure out how to survive the unsurvivable. To find out more about his story, be sure to check out his website.Produced by Joe Rosenberg, original score by Leon Morimoto.Season 16 - Episode 13 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

When Tameer gets hit in the head as a kid, he inherits an entire new lifetime of memories.This story comes to Spooked from our sister podcast, Snap Judgment. The Snap Judgment radio show and podcast mixes real stories with original music to produce cinematic, dramatic audio. Snap's musical brand of storytelling dares listeners to see the world through the eyes of another. It's storytelling… with a beat. You can listen to Snap Judgment on any podcast platform!Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot.

"His secrets filled the air around him like smoke..."  A young boy idolizes his karate instructor. Each kick, throw, and punch a step on the path to becoming a man. But the power of his presence cannot hold back the questions of his character.STORIESThe Master"His secrets filled the air around him like smoke..."  A young boy idolizes his karate instructor. Each kick, throw, and punch a step on the path to becoming a man. But the power of his presence cannot hold back the questions of his character.Thank you, Simon Shieh, for sharing your story! Read the poems featured in this story and more -- in Simon's debut poetry collection Master.And an extra special thank you to Katherine Litwin.Produced by John Fecile. Edited by Anna Sussman and Nancy López. Original Score by Renzo Gorrio and Doug Stuart. Artwork by Teo Ducot.Ego Tripping - Nikki Giovanni Read by Flo Wiley. Music by Pat Mesiti-Miller.Burning BooksGlynn's mom finds the devil in her house.Performed by Glynn Washington at Snap LIVE. Original score composed and performed by Alex Mandel, Tim Frick, and David Brandt. Season 16 - Episode 11 Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices