Snap Judgment

Bigfoot takes over a small southern town in a massive way. Locals say he’s a beast, a spiritual entity, or even worse… a damn Yankee. Plus, a story from Pumpkintown… where everyone is hunting for Sasquatch. STORIES Bigfoot in Littleton Bigfoot takes over a small southern town in a massive way. Locals say he’s a beast, a spiritual entity, or even worse… a damn Yankee. A very big thank you to Stephen Barcelo, Sylvia Alsten with the Littleton Woman’s Club, and Alan Williford at Medock Mountain State Park. Thank you also to Jesse Walker, Loretta Woodburn, Wyatt Pegram, Matt Johnston, Richard Holm, and all the other folks in Littleton, North Carolina who spoke to us for this story. Produced by Elissa Castles, edited by Nancy López, original score by Nick Marks, artwork by Teo Ducot. The Sasquatch of Pumpkintown Everyone in Pumpkintown is hunting for Sasquatch… except Ben Becker. He knows exactly where Bigfoot lives. This episode does contain strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised. This story…

Did you ever have that one friend that you didn’t want but it turns out you really need? This week on Snap, epic stories about unexpected companionship. STORIES Shut Up Rick He’s called Shut Up Rick. Let’s hear what he has to say. Thank you Bucky Sinister and Rick Loddy. Bucky is a poet, author, and comedian — to learn more about Bucky’s work and what he’s up to now, subscribe to his substack. Original score by Clay Xavier, produced by Zahra Noorbaksh and John Fecile, artwork by Teo Ducot. Rock Paper Scissors When the two greatest auction houses in the world – Christie’s and Sotheby’s – vied for the privilege of auctioning off $20 million worth of art in 2004, little did they know that they would be forced to engage in an ancient form of ritualized combat known as… rock paper scissors. Be sure to check out Carol Vogel’s original New York Times article. Produced by Joe Rosenberg The Kipling Hotel – LIVE A young, penniless student arrives at UCLA with no place to stay and is forced to improvise. Performed by…

Ali faces down her attacker in court and wins. But will the Central California Women's Facility officers who assaulted her former cell mate and 150 other women see justice? And with the story still unfolding, reporters Madi Bolaños and Anna Sussman unpack the investigation with editor Sukey Lewis in the studio. Part 3 of 3. This episode contains violence against women, sexual assault, and strong language. Please take care while listening. "We Are Jane Doe" is a new 3-part series from KQED’s Snap Studios. Over three episodes, we trace Ali Prout's dramatic fight for justice and the stunning ripple effects that threaten to upend the system of power and control at one of the largest women’s prisons on earth. KQED reporters Anna Sussman and Madi Bolaños spent two years investigating this story. They spoke to more than a dozen women incarcerated at the Central California Women’s Facility, read through hundreds of pages of internal prison documents, obtained leaked audio, and painstakingly watched hours of video…

August 2nd, 2024, started with a search. More than 150 women rounded up into chow hall as their cells were tossed. What happened next was beyond their imagination. It would be investigated by the feds and the state. Things did not go to plan, or did they? Part 2 of 3. This episode contains violence against women, sexual assault, and strong language. Please take care while listening. "We Are Jane Doe" is a new 3-part series from KQED’s Snap Studios. Over three episodes, we trace Ali Prout's dramatic fight for justice and the stunning ripple effects that threaten to upend the system of power and control at one of the largest women’s prisons on earth. KQED reporters Anna Sussman and Madi Bolaños spent two years investigating this story. They spoke to more than a dozen women incarcerated at the Central California Women’s Facility, read through hundreds of pages of internal prison documents, obtained leaked audio, and painstakingly watched hours of video footage to reconstruct one of the most complex and…

Ali Prout had only been at the Central California Women’s Facility for a few days when an officer stopped her at a checkpoint. “You have beautiful lips and beautiful eyes,” he said. But he didn’t realize… this time he’d picked the wrong girl. Part 1 of 3. This episode contains violence against women, sexual assault, and strong language. Please take care while listening. "We Are Jane Doe" is a new 3-part series from KQED’s Snap Studios. Over three episodes, we trace Ali Prout's dramatic fight for justice and the stunning ripple effects that threaten to upend the system of power and control at one of the largest women’s prisons on earth. KQED reporters Anna Sussman and Madi Bolaños spent two years investigating this story. They spoke to more than a dozen women incarcerated at the Central California Women’s Facility, read through hundreds of pages of internal prison documents, obtained leaked audio, and painstakingly watched hours of video footage to reconstruct one of the most complex and devastating…

A man washes up on shore in Sitka, Alaska and finds himself in the middle of an underground boxing show. It’s a place where you might duke it out with the bartender, the locals, or your own troubled past. This episode contains violence and strong language. Sensitive listeners, please be advised. Thank you, Jaed “The Stone” Coffin, for sharing your story with us! For more about Jaed’s story, check out his memoir Roughhouse Friday. Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Doug Stuart, artwork by Teo Ducot Snap Classic - Season 17 - Episode 42

On the volcanic island of La Palma biologists unravel a massive mystery. Is it a crime scene, a treasure or a dream come true? And in the town of Trinidad a grade school trip to the ocean is about to get beautiful, raw, and wild. Whalecano On the volcanic island of La Palma biologists unravel a massive mystery. Is it a crime scene, a treasure or a dream come true? A huge thank you to Paula Alonso, and Dr. Antonio Fernandez for sharing your story with Snap! Produced by Erick Yáñez, with help from Anna Sussman. Original score by Nicholas Marks. Translation by Elvis Di Marcantonio. Art by Teo Ducot. The Trinidad Whale In the town of Trinidad a grade school trip to the ocean is about to get beautiful, raw, and wild. Special thanks to Trinidad elementary’s seventh grade class: Alana, Jolena, Xavier, Joda and Atticus. Thanks as well to the third grade class: Remy, Harriet, Emmett Bowman, Margie Cunningham and Emmett Bowman. Big thanks also to The Marine Mammal Stranding network at Cal Poly Humboldt, Alison Lewis,…

In sweet home Alabama, from the heart of Libya, comes a renegade candidate with a boombox and a head scarf. The cheerleaders, the geeks, the dweebs and the freaks are about to send a message the country needs right after 9/11. A very big thank you to Yasmin! Yasmin is a comedian and storyteller. You can follow her on Instagram @yasminelhahahady or TikTok @yasmin_elhady. She first told a version of this story at Story District in Washington, DC. Produced by Justin Kramon, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot. Snap Classic - Season 17 – Episode 40

There’s a jumbie in a jalopy and the spirits are flowing during happy hour on St. Thomas. Plus, everybody kicks butt in Lee’s Los Gatos Spin Class but Cycle 23 is out of this world. Snap Judgment presents this year's Campfire Tales... "Hot Wheels.” A supernatural summer tradition that features stories from our evil twin Spooked. Spooked drops weekly, you can listen on any podcast platform. Tune in and be afraid... STORIES Joyride There’s a jumbie in a jalopy and the spirits are flowing during happy hour on St. Thomas. Thanks, Greg, for sharing your story! Produced and scouted by Paulina Creque, original score by Doug Stuart, artwork by Teo Ducot. Soul Cycle Everybody kicks ass in Lee’s Spin Class but Cycle 23 is out of this world. Thanks Lee for sharing your story! Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Sandra Lawson-Ndu. Season 17 - Episode 39

Hold onto your mullets! British drummer Nick Murphy and his band are overjoyed after signing a record deal with THE Quincy Jones in 1984. That is, until a chance encounter with one of the biggest stars in the world changes everything. And the story of a talented luchador who has an uphill battle to get the crowd and the press on his side. STORIES Feelabeelia: One-Hit Wonder? Hold onto your mullets! British drummer Nick Murphy and his band are overjoyed after signing a record deal with THE Quincy Jones in 1984. That is, until a chance encounter with one of the biggest stars in the world changes everything. Major thanks to Nick Murphy for sharing your story with Snap. Nick still lives in Leicester today and he’s continuing to make his dreams come true as one of the oldest students at De Montfort University, where he studies music technology. Produced by Regina Bediako, original score by Clay Xavier, artwork by Teo Ducot. Cassandro El Exotico Cassandro is an up-and-coming luchador, a professional Mexican…

A pizza delivery guy goes full superhero out on the job. And a husband trying to bring joy to his pregnant wife pays a high price to satisfy her sweet tooth. Super Pizza Man A pizza delivery guy goes full superhero out on the job. A huge thank you to Nicholas Bostic for sharing your story! Nick would go on to be awarded the prestigious Carnegie Medal of Honor; the highest civilian honor for heroism. He currently runs his own lawn care business in Lafayette, Indiana. Produced by Bo Walsh, edited by Anna Sussman, original score by Nick Marks, art by Teo Ducot. Heavy, High & Far A husband trying to bring joy to his pregnant wife pays a high price to satisfy her sweet tooth. A huge thank you to Gastor Almonte for sharing his story with Snap! Gastor is a standup comedian and storyteller from Brooklyn. He’s also the co-host of the weekly comedy news podcast “The War Report” You can watch Gastor perform this story live for the World. You can also find him on Instagram. Produced by Bo Walsh, edited by Anna Sussman,…

The dead man does not know the value of his coffin. This episode comes to us from Mind Your Own! Mind Your Own is a storytelling podcast navigating what it means to belong, all from the African perspective. Join Lupita Nyong’o as she shares tales of her own and dives into the lives of real people finding their way in new worlds of every kind. Listen to and enjoy Mind Your Own on any podcast platform! This episode contains strong language and graphic imagery. Sensitive listeners, please be advised. “Comeuppance” 12-year-old Lupita’s split-second playground decision haunts her for years. Produced by Regina Bediako & Marisa Dodge. Original score by Clay Xavier. “Graveyard Shift” John Kibera has found the hustle to end all hustles in Nairobi. The shillings pour in. But one day, a job goes very, very wrong. Thank you, John, for sharing your story with us. Produced by David Exumé. Original score by Lalin St. Juste and Sam Law. Translation by Salome Nduku. Voiceover by Ndungi Githuku. Special thanks to our fixer…

Chase the storm until it chases you. Tornadoes! They don’t look like they do in the movies. When you’re in the path of one, all you’ll see is a wall of black wind. This week, Snap is heading directly into the monster’s maw to chase storms that should be left alone. Big thanks to Craig Wolter! Thank you, Windom High School… especially Sarah, Benny, and Danielle. Crystal Frank, another student on the trip, shared her home video with us. This story would not have been possible without her. Many thanks also to Sue, for sharing your story with us. Sue’s memoir is titled The Lake Turned Upside Down. Produced by John Fecile, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot. If you listened to our radio broadcast and want to find out what happened to the 24 people that shut themselves in a beer cooler to wait out one of the strongest tornadoes in recorded history, you can listen to the full length version of the “Eye of the Storm” story here. Season 17 – Episode 35 Join Snap+ if you aren't already a member! Get…

Randy, the local surfing legend is in a one-man battle with the blaze at Sunset Point. Plus, the blizzard of the century traps four men on top of a Tennessee bald, frozen and hungry, but with a song in their heart. Sunset Point Randy, the local surfing legend is in a one-man battle with the blaze at Sunset Point. Thanks to Randy and Andrew for sharing your stories with us. Thanks to the whole Sunset Point surf crew. Special thanks to Sonya Geis, Phil Richards, and KCRW. And shout to Los Angeles Fire Department Station 23. The heroes who put out the fire on Gladstones and fought the flames in the Palisades. This story was produced by Jesse Dukes, John Fecile, and David Exumé. Original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff. Tennessee Whiteout The blizzard of the century traps four men on top of a Tennessee bald, frozen and hungry, but with a song in their heart. Thank you Roger Redding for sharing your story with us! Produced by Anna Sussman, edited by Nancy Lopez, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff. Season 17 - Episode…

Dad goes into hero mode and no hurricane, no barricade, no live power line is gonna stand between him and his daughter’s wedding day. Father of the Bride Dad goes into hero mode and no hurricane, no barricade, no live power line is gonna stand between him and his daughter’s wedding day. Thank you David Jones and his daughter Elizabeth Marquez for sharing their story! David is a performance excellence coach and consultant for businesses and the founder and president of the Excellence Advisory. Produced by Bo Walsh, edited by Anna Sussman, original score by Nick Marks, artwork by Teo Ducot. Reservoir Panic As a violent wildfire heads toward the town of Twisp, Andrew Denham realizes he’s the guy responsible for making sure the town has enough water for the firefight. But there’s a big problem... there are only two well pumps to get water to the reservoir... and one of them isn’t working. Thanks Andrew for sharing your story! Produced by Shaina Shealy, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff. Join Snap+ if you aren't…

A teenager is trapped behind the wheel of a speeding SUV with a mind of its own. It’s blowing through intersections at high speed, police in hot pursuit, Mom’s on with 911… and one lone trooper has got a crazy idea. And -- when NASA loses contact with a spacecraft over 12 billion miles away, scientist Suzanne Dodd has to throw a Hail Mary. When the system crashes, when the first responders can’t respond, when you’re left all alone... what do you do? For the next four weeks, we’re sharing stories of people trying to think their way out of situations where no help is coming. And all of them are just gonna have to figure it out because this July on Snap Judgment... it's "All Systems Down." Runaway Car A teenager is trapped behind the wheel of a speeding SUV with a mind of its own. It’s blowing through intersections at high speed, police in hot pursuit, Mom’s on with 911… and one lone trooper has got a crazy idea. A huge thank you to Sam Dutcher and his mother, Catherine Johnson Dutcher, along with Minnesota…

One man takes it upon himself to reintroduce the beaver to Belgium. When his proposal to the Ministry of Conservation is rejected he takes matters into his own hands. And -- the "Home Alone" Curse is all too real. The Belgian Beaver Bandit Sacré bleu! The damn beavers are on the loose! Belgium authorities are hot on the tail of Oliver Rubbers. A renegade with a wild mission… bring the beaver back. Thank you, Olivier Rubbers, for sharing your story with us! Olivier now lives with his wife and kids in Belgium and is still engaging in nature advocacy work. Produced by David Exumé, original score by Renzo Gorrio, special thanks to Isobel Cockerell, artwork by Teo Ducot. The Home Alone Curse The “Home Alone” Curse is all too real. The big-budget movie is in peril, and only one actor can save it. Not Macaulay Culkin. Not Joe Pesci. It’s the goofball cop, Larry Hankin, with one iconic glazed donut. This story contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised. Thank you, Larry Hankin, for sharing your…

From our friends at Love and Radio, the groundbreaking new series Blood Memory. In this first episode, two women meet the same man in prison and walk away with decidedly different impressions of him. “Sometimes, if you want something great, you have to make a lot of sacrifices.” You can listen to the rest of the series over at the Love and Radio podcast! Stay tuned after this episode for an interview with Love and Radio creator Nick van der Kolk and Snap Producer John Fecile. This episode featured the voices of Ariel, Heather Brown and Michael Thompson. The series producer is Meera Kumar. Robin Amer is the Managing Editor with additional reporting by Brian Krans and Anya Schultz. Fact checking by Nicole Pasulka. Bill Rohlfing provided the voice of the radio announcer. This episode featured music from: The Lighthouse Trembles – Natalia Beylis – Mermaids Mind Shifts – Michel Banabila – The Unreal Realm Acqua – Las Olas – Las Olas Not In Our Name – Pierre Bastien & Michel Banabila – Nuits Sans Nuit Vertigo –…

The story of a self proclaimed “drunk drag queen,” and the music that saved them. Plus, we go on an adventure underwater to visit a secret kingdom for seahorses. STORIES Movement From the podcast, Movement, we spotlight the story of a self proclaimed” drunk drag queen,” and the music that saved them. Produced by Meklit Hadero and Ian Coss. The Movement show was co-created by Julie Caine. You can find all of San Cha’s music and projects at churchofsancha.com. If you want to find more stories at the crossroads of music and migration, search for “Movement with Meklit Hadero,” wherever you listen! Movement is supported by The Mellon Foundation and National Geographic Society, and distributed by PRX. Under Pressure After traumatic experiences underwater, a diver falls in love with the ocean again by building a secret kingdom for seahorses. BIG thanks to Roger Hanson. Roger’s writing a children’s book, called “A Seahorse of a Different Color,” about a unique seahorse who was born different. It comes out in June.…

Little Sammy has three loves. Bumble bees, the Bible and boys. Raised by preachers, he’s kept one of these secret, but Deliverance Day is on the way. A very big thank you to Dr. Sammy Ramsey and Pastor Roosevelt Ramsey for sharing their story! You can learn more about Sammy and his work with bees here. Big love and thanks to Lulu Miller as well. Sammy and Lulu work together to make a kids podcast for Radiolab, it’s called Terrestrials and they just dropped an episode all about dads in the animal world... How they’re different than what you’ve been taught. It’s called “The DADventure.” It’s a very fun romp, beautifully sound designed and full of great stories. Go listen to Terrestrials on any podcast platform! Produced by Lulu Miller and Nancy López, original score by Nicholas Marks. Season 17 - Episode 28 Join Snap+ if you aren't already a member! Get bonus eps, an ad-free stream and more.

Two women set sail on a tiny boat embarking on a journey to freedom that takes them across the globe. And a Hungarian composer dreams of changing the world… he did. This episode contains strong language, violence, and mentions suicide. Sensitive listeners please be advised. From Russia With Love Two women, a tiny boat, the wide-open ocean… and kismet. Elena has written a book about their adventure, called Talking to the Moon. You can read the story on the couple’s website. Produced by Liz Mak, original score by Leon Morimoto, artwork by Teo Ducot. Gloomy Sunday Hungarian composer Rezső Seress dreamed of changing the world with his music. He did. Produced and scored by Davey Kim. Season 17 Episode 27 Join Snap+ if you aren't already a member! Get bonus eps, an ad-free stream and more.

A Coast Guardsman scans the dark, starry horizon with a pair of night vision goggles. He’s looking for hazards in the water and other ships. But nothing can prepare him for what he’s about to see. And -- in Hilo, Hawaii, hula sisters are about to take the stage at the 1986 Merrie Monarch Festival. They’ve been practicing for months. But the gods have other plans. This supernatural story comes to us from our evil-twin, Spooked! You can listen to Spooked on any podcast platform, episodes drop weekly. Coast Guard Haunts It’s midnight in the middle of the Atlantic ocean and Jordan is standing watch on board a Coast Guard cutter ship, scanning the dark, starry horizon with a pair of night vision goggles. He’s looking for hazards in the water and other ships. But nothing can prepare him for what he’s about to see. Jordan, thank you, for sharing your story with us! Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Lauryn Newson. Merrie Monarch It’s a spring night in Hilo, Hawaii. Lei-Ann and her hula sisters are about to…

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. STORIES The Real Fleetwood Mac 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? 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 Bat Every baseball fan has heard of the superstar hitter George Brett and…

You don't always need words to speak up. Silence Speaks In 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 Train During 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 Fest In 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…

At 101 years old, Deborah discovered a box she'd stashed away a lifetime ago. What was inside reignited an old love and turned her life upside down. This is an episode from a podcast we love, Heavyweight. We are so excited to share it with you! Heavyweight, hosted by Jonathan Goldstein, creates space for difficult conversations and resolving long-standing regrets and unanswered questions. Balancing humor and empathy, host Jonathan Goldstein helps his subjects pinpoint the moment things went wrong and joins them on a quest to make them right. Find Heavyweight wherever you get your podcasts! Or connect on Instagram: @pushkinpods, @heavyweightpodcast Season 17 - Episode 23

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:…

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…

Amika and the Fire Girls are called to the scene of a terrible crash 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…

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,…

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…

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…

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 Join Snap+ if you aren't already a member! Get bonus eps, an ad-free stream and more.

Snap+ is the new subscription membership program from Snap Judgment. You’ll get an ad-free stream, special behind-the-scenes features, and even some virtual hangs with Glynn. Bonus episodes will drop every month. Join us! Sign up at Supercast.

A musical prodigy from Kansas becomes a renowned race woman in Chicago, a tabloid sensation in Harlem, and a musical force the world over. These are the many lives and loves of one of the most famous women of the era: Nora Holt. Starring Nichole Hill, Natalie Tulloch, and Christabel Nsiah-Buadi. This incredible story comes to us from Our Ancestors Were Messy, a show about our ancestors and all their drama. It dives into the gossip, scandals, and pop culture that made headlines and then history in pre-Civil Rights Era America. Host Nichole Hill takes her guests through the story of an ancestor in search of opportunity, adventure, love, and a way to beat Jim Crow. Along the way, these ancestors make messes that land them in the gossip columns of Black newspapers. Listen to Our Ancestors Were Messy on any podcast platform! Or follow along on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. This story was written and produced by Nichole Hill. Sound design by Pat Mesiti-Miller with additional music by Mellat Makeda. Season 17 -…

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 Standing This 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 Baggage Fatima 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

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 stands of the 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. Season 17 - Episode 13

A call from the Philadelphia Phillies brings a big league opportunity to a pitcher holding out hope. Thank you, Brian Mazone, for sharing your story with the Snap! After retiring from baseball in 2010, Brian started a new career in medical supply sales in the San Diego area. To read more about Brian’s journey in baseball, check out the article from the Washington Post by Dave Sheinin which inspired this story. Produced by Bo Walsh, edited by Anna Sussman, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff, art by Teo Ducot. Season 17 - Episode 12

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. This episode contains strong language, sensitive listeners please be advised. The French Connection A 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 Zone Moshe 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 War A 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…

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

An ecologist in Maine fears she will be criticized 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. STORIES When Doves Cry 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. Thank you Sara and Lily B for sharing your story with us! Produced by Anna Sussman, edited by John Fecile, original score by Nicholas Marks. The Blue Bear Lynn 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…

From puppy love to stolen moments to the thrill of the chase... their relationship made headlines. A huge thank you to Toby Dorr for sharing her story with Snap! Toby is an author, speaker and criminal justice reform advocate. She’s also the founder of the Fierce Grace Movement, a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting women impacted by incarceration through storytelling and mentorship. There's so much that we were not able to share about Toby’s experience... to find out more, check out Toby’s memoir “Living With Conviction” Produced by Bo Walsh, edited by Anna Sussman, original score by Nicholas Marks. Season 17 - Episode 8

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 Actually A 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 Rivals After 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

Your eyes may deceive you, your ears can betray you, but when it comes to love the nose knows. Plus - a reflection on life’s sliding doors and how we can never truly know all the versions of the people we love. This week on Snap, we kick off our FEVER series! Four weeks full of love stories that are not your typical romances... We love you Snap Nation! Catch the Fever. STORIES Smell Ya Later After Laura’s husband gets a fatal diagnosis, he promises to contact her from beyond the grave. But how will she know it’s really him? This supernatural story comes to us from our evil twin podcast, Spooked. Spooked drops weekly, listen on any podcast platform! Thank you, Laura Packer, for sharing this special story. Laura’s a storyteller in Minneapolis. Learn more about Laura at her website. Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Leon Morimoto. My Dead Mother’s Italian Lover Not long after Peter’s mother Mara dies, a stranger messages him on Facebook. His name is Francesco and he says that before she met Peter’s dad,…

Adizah Eghan noticed an interesting trend on social media: everyone seemed to be living it up in Tulum, Mexico. Some were flocking there to have a good time, while others were seeking something much deeper: they wanted to escape racism and seek refuge with like-minded people. Adizah traveled to Mexico to experience the vibes of Tulum for herself — and also dig into why Black people are seeking refuge in a small fishing town south of Cancun. This piece comes to us from our friends at VICE News Reports. VICE has so many amazing stories, make sure you check out their podcast! This episode contains explicit language, sensitive listeners please be advised. Special thanks to Nubia Younge, Patricia Talley, and all those in Tulum! This episode was produced by Adizah Eghan and edited by Kate Osborn and James T. Green with help from Annie Aviles and Stephanie Kariuki. The original score is by Kyle Murdock. Snap Classic - Season 17 – Episode 5

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 & Claw series -- stay tuned next month for our collection of love stories in February... Fever. Do not miss it. No Reins 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. 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 Chicken Some schoolyard stories are true, and so are some…

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. STORIES Monkey Sister A 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 by Robin Schwartz. 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,…

A dolphin named Dr. Spock is in danger and NBA star Clifford Ray is the only man big enough to lend a hand. Plus, torrential rain is ripping through the Appalachians and the people of the mountain are all looking for Plan B. STORIES Just Another Day for Big Clifford Ray A dolphin named Dr. Spock is in danger and NBA star Clifford Ray is the only man big enough to lend a hand. A huge thank you to Clifford Ray and Mary O’Herron for sharing their story with the Snap! This year, Big Cliff and Author Laynie D. Weaver teamed up to bring Clifford and Dr. Spock’s story to life in an illustrated Children’s book titled “Big Clifford Ray Saves The Day.” Want more Big Cliff? Follow him on Instagram or X. Produced by Bo Walsh, original score by Dirk Schwarzhoff , artwork by Teo Ducot Plan B Snap Storyteller, Dr. Ray Christian, found himself trapped by the rising floodwaters of hurricane Helene, he knew he had to flee. But he also knew that meant leaving behind all of his animals, including his favorite goat. Thank you,…

Can the dreaded Alligator Death Roll actually save your life? One man risks life and limb in the Florida swamplands. Thank you, Eric Merda, for sharing his story with us! Eric has been sharing his experience on stage doing stand-up comedy and also as a motivational speaker. Check him out on Instagram! Produced by Bo Walsh, edited by Anna Sussman, original score by Nick Marks. Season 17 - Episode 1

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

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. STORIES The Christmas Tree Mafia 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. 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 Siberia Mike Ramsdell is a covert operative for…