“He said, 'Ok, Les, don’t call home... if you run into trouble, go talk to your coach and be brave.'”

Photo by Ben Godkin

A Brave Front

In this hour, stories of finding inner strength in the face of unimaginable odds. The courage to make life or death choices, stick to one's guns, and not only survive, but thrive. This hour is hosted by Moth Radio Hour Producer, Jay Allison. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media in Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

Les Strayhorn heeds his father's advice.

District Fire Chief Michael McNamee confronts his worst fear.

Robin Utz comes to face the hardships of pregnancy and love.

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Stories in this Episode

12:14

A Collision in My World

by Les Strayhorn

Les Strayhorn heeds his father's advice.

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15:48

Never to Forget

by Michael Mcnamee

District Fire Chief Michael McNamee confronts his worst fear.

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14:14

Loving Grace

by Robin Utz

Robin Utz comes to face the hardships of pregnancy and love.

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Extras From This Episode

Michael McNamee

Overview of the building and fire growth soon after the firefighters searching the building had been evacuated.

Firefighter recovery ritual as he was removed from the building.

Make-shift memorial created by citizens during the eight day recovery operation.

Michael speaking at a memorial dedication for one of the firefighters.

Michael speaking with the union president prior to giving a press briefing.

Michael standing before the rubble pile and thinking that we still had five left to recover.

The face says it all.

Robin Utz

Robin and Jim on their wedding day.

Robin and her husband, Jim, at the Wilbur Theatre where Robin shared her story.

Robin and her doctor at a recent visit.

A special note from Robin. She writes:

I would love to give a shoutout to my best friend and husband, Jim, our families, and all of our amazing friends and family that really carried us through this experience - from Internet infertility communities to friends we hadn't spoken to in years that came out of the woodwork to fill our home with cards, flowers and meals, and our texts and inboxes full of words of love and support. And in some cases, filling our days with tear-filled meals, and puzzles and tea.