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840
September 13, 2024

How Are You Not Seeing This?

People trying and struggling to see what another person sees. 

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An illustration of two people holding up eyeglasses to each others faces

Gracia Lam

Note: The internet version of this episode contains un-beeped curse words. BEEPED VERSION.

Prologue

Prologue

Guest-host Tobin Low talks to comedian Tig Notaro about a jarring ride to school with her son. (6 minutes)

By Tobin Low
Act One

There Will Be Blood

Producer Aviva DeKornfeld heads to the Calgary Stampede to watch as men try out a machine designed to simulate menstrual cramps. (15 minutes)

By Aviva DeKornfeld
Act Two

Face Your Demons

A man can’t seem to see anyone in his life for who they really are, plunging his life into chaos. (18 minutes)

By Alix Spiegel
Act Three

Pump It Up

Senior Editor David Kestenbaum hears about a way to save some money and help save the world. All he needs is a little help. (5 minutes)

By David Kestenbaum
Act Four

I’m Great, Thanks For NOT Asking

Marie Phillips reads a short story involving an aloof friend, a goose, and some extreme gardening. (7 minutes)

Written and performed by Marie Phillips; Produced by Bim Adewunmi

Song:

“Do You See What I See” by Hunters & Collectors (podcast only) & “Can’t You See It” by Sammy Davis, Jr. (radio only)

Related

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50: Shoulda Been Dead
Jan. 17, 1997

Act Four: Hope

Cheryl Trykv hears she's gonna live.
689: Digging Up the Bones
Dec. 6, 2019

Act Four: Revision Quest

In her forties, Jill Ciment wrote about the love of her life.
43: Faustian Bargains
Nov. 22, 1996

Act Three: Voyager

Alix Spiegel tells the story of her friend Jayna, who made a Faustian bargain at 11 years old.

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Three Miles

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This American Life is produced in collaboration with WBEZ Chicago and delivered to stations by PRX The Public Radio Exchange.

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