56:

Name Change

Originally aired 03.07.1997
Stories of people changing their name — some to create a new identity, some to con people. Name changes are particularly American stories: they're the dream of starting over with a clean slate. They're Ellis Island and 12-step programs, the move westward and self help, Marilyn Monroe and Malcolm X and the Artist Formerly Known as Prince, all rolled up in one.

Prologue.

Ira Glass's grandmother. (2 minutes)

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Act One. The Procedure.

A story by Margy Rochlin. (7 minutes)

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Act Two. Baby Remember My Name.

A 17 year old tricks an entire resort town into believing he is someone he is not. By Jack Hitt and Christopher Cerf. (17 minutes)

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Act Three. As Seen On Tv.

Dishwasher Pete on Letterman. (17 minutes)

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Act Four. Nom De Plume, Nom De Guerre.

How a guy named Tom became Camden Joy — and what he gained and what he lost. With Sarah Vowell. (13 minutes)

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Photo: pneyu

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