Comments for Transom

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Jenny Silverman

Jenny Silverman — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:32:25 +0000

I heard a piece of this on NPR yesterday. Really profound story telling that renews my faith in the goodness of humanity. Amazing what can happen when you venture outside of your comfort zone and really meet people! Thanks for bringing these stories to light.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Monday’s Link Roundup. | Dan Curtis ~ Professional Personal Historian

Monday’s Link Roundup. | Dan Curtis ~ Professional Personal Historian — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:34:11 +0000

[...] Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man. “It’s rare we take the time to listen to hour-long radio stories anymore, but I hope you’ll listen to this one, maybe twice. It’s an epic journey, a coming of age story, and a portrait of this country–big-hearted, wild, innocent, and wise…Andrew Forsthoefel, a first-time radio producer, who set out at age 23 to walk across America, East to West, 4000 miles, with a sign on him that said, “Walking to Listen.” Eventually, he showed up here in Woods Hole.Andrew didn’t intend to make a radio story–he just wanted to listen to people. You’ll hear in Andrew’s interviews his quality of attention. He is a magnet for stories and for the desire to connect.” [...]

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Jeff

Jeff — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:26:17 +0000

Well, God bless you. I slept on the ground sometimes, poached for food, and so forth, actually a little younger than you were on this trip. Lost, nowhere near as aware as you were. Thank you for sharing the beautiful lives shared with you.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Helene Tricker

Helene Tricker — Sun, 19 May 2013 19:06:55 +0000

It’s good to know that there are still young people who venture out. It’s something you will always be able to look back on with a sense of accomplishment. Good for you you young man!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Teri Dignazio

Teri Dignazio — Sun, 19 May 2013 17:27:16 +0000

the wisdom from across America brings tears to my eyes….how to harness this real energy and sincere core of the American people for the good it can be? All the good energy, is needed now to stem the negativity. The piece about the “strangers” down the road – “the others”. brilliant simplicity …….there are no “others”.

Comment on Brian Storm by Brian Storm

Brian Storm — Sun, 19 May 2013 14:25:16 +0000

Thanks for your kind words Miles. As for time, we spent one week during the workshop on the reporting and post production. We spent another few days in post after the workshop to make adjustments based on the team screening and discussion at the end of the workshop. The thing to remember though is that no one who watches the piece will care if you spent a week or a month on a film. They will either be inspired and educated by your film or not. It it’s a great film they will share with their social networks and spread your film to others, which is a big goal for all of our work.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Kristen

Kristen — Sun, 19 May 2013 05:43:17 +0000

Andrew, thank you for your inspiring story. I have tears in my eyes after listening to it on This American Life. It’s a much needed reminder that we shouldn’t let fear hold us back from connecting with “strangers.” We’re all in this crazy soup together, and talking is the best way to escape the dangers of an Us v. Them mentality. Again, thank you!

Comment on Brian Storm by Miles

Miles — Sat, 18 May 2013 16:32:17 +0000

I was quite moved by both renderings of this story. Quick follow up questions on the team in the field, all about time. Though I realize your process involves clear parameters in advance, more generally how much time do you anticipate things taking? Is there any rule of thumb about production hours to video minutes or audio minutes? About how many people hours went into your web piece on Walter?

Thanks for this great work and valuable instruction!

Comment on Marantz PMD 661 by Ed Cohen

Ed Cohen — Sat, 18 May 2013 16:10:46 +0000

Jeff: Does the new Mark II update of the Marantz PMD 661 have any features that a radio journalist would want? (The security features I read about didn’t sound important to me.)

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Tom Blyboo

Tom Blyboo — Sat, 18 May 2013 15:32:13 +0000

Brilliant, brilliant programme – and a lesson to anyone interested in how to make great radio. One question – what device did you use to record your audio while you were walking across America?

Comment on Tascam DR-100mkII by Florian Kellermann

Florian Kellermann — Sat, 18 May 2013 09:43:48 +0000

Thank you very much for the great report. I like your reports especially for testing the recorders with dynamic mics as I am using the Sennheiser MD46 and the pre amps of most recorders are too poor for this type of microphone. As for that I am quiet satisfied with my Sony PCM-M10 but after years of using it I am fed up with the mini jack – so I am looking for a recorder with XLR input. Would you say the pre amps of the new DR-100mk are as good as those of the Sony PCM-M10? Judging from your sound examples they are slightly worse, but that might be due to the volume of the voice (you do not talk always at the same level). I would be very thankful for an answer.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Andrew Forsthoefel

Andrew Forsthoefel — Fri, 17 May 2013 19:56:17 +0000

A continued thanks to everyone who’s contributed constructive feedback, support, and encouragement. It means a lot to know the story has resonated with so many listeners. Thank you!

Comment on Splash by Hanns Jones

Hanns Jones — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:51:08 +0000

Thank you Richard. Can you give me a call, note I’m having problems accessing my email.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Rick Wells

Rick Wells — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:53:06 +0000

I listened again and again to this beautiful production, each time stirred in thought and spirit. Thank you all for sharing your gifts, talents and faith into the guided unknown.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Thoughts on Documenting Your Travels (i.e. How To Not Be Like Me) | Pocket Gypsy & Her Traveling Tales

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:17:18 +0000

[...] Which is, to be honest, to be expected, but still kind of a let-down. Every time I embark on one of these trips, I always have these elaborate plans for blogs and notebooks and volunteering stints and “mind expanding exercises,” and always in the last weeks of said trips, I kick myself for not documenting my journeys better (example 1: this blog). Particularly after hearing this phenomenal podcast from This American Life about a man who walks from Philadelphia to the West Coast, recording memories and interviews from the people he met along the way, I felt like this trip was – in many ways – a wasted opportunity. (To hear the full story of Andrew Forsthoefel, click here.) [...]

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Wade Rothermel

Wade Rothermel — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:54:26 +0000

Great job. Why not make all of the audio you recorded available to the community and see what happens?

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Daisy Stanton

Daisy Stanton — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:20:09 +0000

How funny — I was looking for this exact word, too, and didn’t think I’d found it when I saw “hozho” on another website. I understood the speaker to be saying a French-sounding word — something like “gendans”. Clearly Navajo phonetics are quite different than those of English.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Kel

Kel — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:35:36 +0000

I happened to tune my radio to the station airing this piece and it grabbed my attention.I listened to every word, every sound.I was there on the road with him.I took a journey.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Joyce

Joyce — Wed, 15 May 2013 03:02:16 +0000

Wow

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by DizzleP

DizzleP — Tue, 14 May 2013 16:45:28 +0000

no one cares…get a job, put down the pipe yuppy

Comment on Ask Jeff: Questions from the Transom Tools Column by David Andrews

David Andrews — Tue, 14 May 2013 15:47:45 +0000

Jeff, I too would appreciate help finding a great shotgun mic. I noticed a mic that seems and sounds brilliant. It’s in most of the Tiny Desk concerts. Sometimes it seem alone, judging by there being noting else visible though out a session from the many perspectives of the cameras. What seems wonderful about it is the sound of course: wonderful vocal quality in song or speaking voice–from subjects three or so feet in front, but adjacent backup vocals and instruments too. Seems magic.

Kevin Wait is credited as sound engineer in many, and I tried contacting to ask. No reply reached me from NPR’s Tiny Desk. Has anyone else noticed this mic? Any help finding it is much appreciated.

David, Chattanooga

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by christine currie, Santa Cruz ca

christine currie, Santa Cruz ca — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:13:52 +0000

Andrew you gave us such a treat, Thank you for sharing this epic adventure with the world. It’s a beautiful story to explore after hearing you on TAL

Comment on Story Workshop by Story Workshop Spring 2013: Listening Event | Atlantic Public Media

Story Workshop Spring 2013: Listening Event | Atlantic Public Media — Mon, 13 May 2013 22:34:19 +0000

[...] Nine Transom Story Workshop students have spent eight weeks learning the craft of telling stories with sound. Join us for a public listening event on Thursday, May 23rd at 7:00 at Redfield Hall, 57 Water Street in Woods Hole, to celebrate their work and ask them questions. It’s free. [...]

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Swiss guide

Swiss guide — Mon, 13 May 2013 16:48:56 +0000

l just listened to a podcast version of your story via TuneIn radio on my tablet in Switzerland, thanks for sharing,loved every moment of it. I’ve done a lot of travelling and a few roadtrips around the US myself, and always loved how easy it is to meet people on the road, and how friendly and open most people are.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Dina

Dina — Mon, 13 May 2013 15:10:36 +0000

Yep…I loved this!! I’ve always wanted to do something just like this. I still in my daily life do the same though, interview/visit with people about their lives. It helps me in a way to know their stories. I’m so happy for you that you were able to SAFELY take this journey!!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Jon

Jon — Mon, 13 May 2013 14:14:50 +0000

Another point is that he is pointing toward the sky in this picture, and that is not a good image to be selling. I remember reading a story about a man who was struck by lightning when he pointed toward the sky. Kids might see this picture, mimic it, and consequentially be struck by lightning! It would be much safer to take this picture off the web. In fact, I would take this whole story off the web (because it’s dangerous to walk across the country and kids might try that too) and shut the entire internet down! We would all be safer without any outside influences!

Seriously, I loved the radio story, Andrew. I thank you for sharing it with us.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Leah Grant

Leah Grant — Mon, 13 May 2013 13:24:18 +0000

The best kind of education is not always taught in the classroom, but is experienced through the risks we take in life. Thanks for taking a risk, telling your story and for your raw honesty on your journey.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by radiotelefon

radiotelefon — Mon, 13 May 2013 10:46:36 +0000

I am a “veteran” writer for German Public Radio stations. (Which is why sometimes listening to the radio is hard as it is so difficult to be moved by anything after 20 years of doing very personal radio stories. Not everyone wants to go all the way. In fact, most reporters don’t.) However, I was moved to TEARS by that story. (Listen to it on the Berlin subway at eight in the morning. People were staring at me, I didn’t care. Will listen to the long version tonight.)

Thank you so much for this unique experience. And thank you everyone at this website for helping people to tell their story for RADIO. Keep up the good work. And Andrew: Keep walking!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by This Is Water : Rogue Backpacker

This Is Water : Rogue Backpacker — Mon, 13 May 2013 01:57:37 +0000

[...] journey across the United States listen to the the most recent This American Life podcast or visit Transom.org to understand the motivation behind the trek. Further inspiration for this and most other thoughts [...]

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Traci

Traci — Sun, 12 May 2013 14:30:45 +0000

I started out feeling your mothers fear for you. However, by the end I cried for the beautiful journey that you bravely walked through. What a great start to a young persons life. I look forward to hearing more of what your life’s journey will bring. Everyone of us is walking through this life. Some limp, while other sprint. Some dance and sing. Doesn’t really matter in the end what path we take to get there. Just that we simply arrive…

Comment on Story Workshop Spring 2013: In Session by Alex Ramirez

Alex Ramirez — Sun, 12 May 2013 02:16:21 +0000

What kind of microphone are these guys using?

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Vivian

Vivian — Sat, 11 May 2013 22:09:13 +0000

As a photographer, I see the image of him walking on the tracks as symbolic of taking a journey and nothing else. But your point, Michelle, alarmist or not, is understandable. When I was a child, my father (carrying my infant sister) was walking with me between two sets of railroad tracks. Trains going in opposite directions suddenly appeared too quickly for us to be able to do anything but stand still and wait out their passing. I remember holding on to his leg for dear life with my eyes tightly shut while those trains roared by us and it felt like eternity. Nothing happened but the memory of it still shakes me up.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Carlene Coury

Carlene Coury — Sat, 11 May 2013 20:19:03 +0000

Hello, I just heard your amazing story on This American Life and would like to share it in my English class.
Thank you for this journey, which all got to take with you in many way. Carlene

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Lucy

Lucy — Sat, 11 May 2013 19:01:51 +0000

Loved your story…there something so wonderful about just leaving your life and seeking some meaning.. Bravo!!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Selden Prentice

Selden Prentice — Sat, 11 May 2013 03:36:38 +0000

Amazing, wonderful, moving. Thank-you, thank-you! My favorite part was you singing with Emma Lou Dailey.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Ildiko Cziglenyi

Ildiko Cziglenyi — Sat, 11 May 2013 03:08:02 +0000

Your story just blew my heart open when I first heard it on This American Life, which I listen frequently online while I work. I found myself crying a few times, it was so moving. I had to listen to it in again but its full version to see if listening would inspire those same tears….and it did! Bless you, and thank you so much for walking and sharing your story, and congratulations on getting this far on your journey. May you have many more journeys of all kinds in this life.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Mike Wagner

Mike Wagner — Sat, 11 May 2013 02:24:30 +0000

My daughter Taylor is in the same mind set as your self at the same age. She’s going to Peru for her adventure. I just wish i wasn’t so scared for her

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by 6 Things You Can Do On The Kyoto-Kobe Train Ride

6 Things You Can Do On The Kyoto-Kobe Train Ride — Fri, 10 May 2013 20:12:49 +0000

[...] The latest episode from “This American Life” was actually my favorite one so far. It was the story of a young man (Andrew Forsthoefel) who walked 4,000 miles across America to “Walk To Listen.” You can listen to full record of the story at “Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man.” [...]

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Bleu Hope

Bleu Hope — Fri, 10 May 2013 17:50:52 +0000

My reaction, “stunned and weeping silence.” The tears flowed down my cheeks without effort. What an amazing adventure and wonderful debut to radio. The people you met along your journey were the texture and breath to your story. Thank you for your courage to takes those first steps. May the fear fade away as you treak and trudge on your life path. -Bléu, 30 something, single mom of Phoenix, teenage son Jacksonville Florida.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Drensky

Drensky — Fri, 10 May 2013 14:21:08 +0000

Thank you Andrew and Jay! As your opening goes, I listened to it more than twice ) so inspirational!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Donald Ray Ursin

Donald Ray Ursin — Thu, 09 May 2013 22:05:20 +0000

I also read: A Walk Across America, when I was 32, in 1995. I thought I was older then, reading in a little room on Beacon Hill in Seaatle. My Aunt Laura in Kodiak Alaska sent the book to me. Both of these walks are tear jerkers. Though I am 50, now I’ve been hiking, walking and running for 10 plus years and would still love to plan and accomplish such a journey. All the best in life to you Andrew and the walkers. What promises you have! You have experienced, touched and found life. Donald Ray Ursin

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Linden

Linden — Thu, 09 May 2013 20:40:37 +0000

This is going to sound weird, but I think we are friend soul mates.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Renee Lloyd

Renee Lloyd — Thu, 09 May 2013 20:02:41 +0000

WOW! What an incredible story! You completely transported me from my world and I saw so many beautiful people, heard stories that gave me goose bumps and moved me to tears. Thank you, thank you so much for sharing your journey with me.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Phil

Phil — Thu, 09 May 2013 18:37:41 +0000

Great story Andrew! Very powerful and very touching. It is those moments where you FEEL the truth, versus knowing it change your perspective.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Deb

Deb — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:17:24 +0000

I just spent my morning knitting and crying as I listened to your story…thank you , thank you , thank you…

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Loretta

Loretta — Thu, 09 May 2013 02:10:45 +0000

I heard this story on This American Life this past Sunday, and now I’m listening to the longer version on transom.com. I was transfixed by this story, and Andrew’s openness and youth and fabulous adventure. The voices of the people he met are mesmerizing. This story made me want to get serious about what is #1 on my bucket list: drive across the U.S. before I die. (I’m too old to even CONSIDER walking!) I imagine listening to this story will trigger something different for everyone….what is that great adventure you’ve wanted to have but you push it to the back of your mind while you get up, go to work, go to bed, repeat…For those of us on the down side of 50, it makes you think about what WOULD you say to your 23 year old self? For me, it would be: don’t be afraid all the time. Don’t think that your attempts to control your life will make you safe. Because they won’t. They didn’t. Thank you, Andrew. I can’t wait to read your book.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Derrick

Derrick — Wed, 08 May 2013 23:43:21 +0000

Andrew, I just finished listening to the story on This American Life. I was worried for you after you first sat out and came across the men on the train tracks. Then I began to wonder if you had come in contact with any dangerous people and how “those other people” treated you when you walked through those towns you were warned about. Then I remembered “those people” make up such a small minority that you would be more likely to run into just the kind, caring, friendly people that you came across.

Great job and keep walking!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Georgia

Georgia — Wed, 08 May 2013 22:07:14 +0000

This piece has touched me so deeply at a time that I really needed it, and I believe it came into my life for a reason. I heard it while driving in my car and sat in my driveway to listen to it completely, and the ending lessons you learned left me in tears. I am a 21 and the three things you would tell your 23 year old self was exactly what I needed to hear and are now written on a piece of paper I taped up in my room. You know exactly what to do. Don’t be afriad. Keep Walking. Thank you Andrew.

-Georgia

Comment on Story Workshop Spring 2013: Insights by kristinalucenko

kristinalucenko — Wed, 08 May 2013 16:33:20 +0000

what a smart bunch! thanks for sharing these insights.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Carrie Jane

Carrie Jane — Wed, 08 May 2013 13:18:17 +0000

What a wonderful story. Listened to this on my way to work this morning, and I’ve been thinking about it ever since. What a great trip you were able to take. Even though you may forget pieces of your trip and the lessons you learned, they will still be with you forever. I’m no stranger to the cathartic roadtrip myself, and I can only hope that my son will one day be drawn to that similar excursion himself.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by DMB

DMB — Wed, 08 May 2013 07:44:33 +0000

Especially moved by how your story handles the darker issues of life (aging, death) and American life (racism, Iraq war).

Comment on A Piece of Collective Memory by Richard Ziglar

Richard Ziglar — Wed, 08 May 2013 02:29:53 +0000

Thanks. Yes. I appreciate that reminder. I looked into FMA a long time ago and did not find anything I wanted to use but there is a lot of rooting around one needs to do.

thanks again, Richard

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Will Bronson

Will Bronson — Wed, 08 May 2013 02:09:04 +0000

Absolutely incredible. I loved it all, as will any intelligent soul that hears it, or allows themselves the time to listen… I was weep walking, sitting here in my study listening to your words. Truly wonderful. Thank you. I will remember your name, friend, and will look forward to whatever you do in life. Inspiration is a title that simply doesn’t do you justice. Well done, sir. Now go live your life. Stop on through the northeast sometime; you’ve got a place in my house if you’d like it, or the yard if you’d rather.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Beth Gifford

Beth Gifford — Wed, 08 May 2013 01:41:00 +0000

Andrew, I listened to your story in NPR last evening. Fortunately for me my drive was long. But you kept me mesmerized and as soon as I arrived home I ran into the house and turned on the radio, not wanting to miss a moment. Fascinating! I felt as though I were walking with you, meeting these good citizens with you. Thank you for sharing your experience and the stories of everyone you met. You are a great American storyteller!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Julia Tremarelli

Julia Tremarelli — Tue, 07 May 2013 22:22:33 +0000

My husband and I loved your story, reminded us of when we were younger. (keep on hoofin’) J&J

Comment on A Piece of Collective Memory by Catherine Welch

Catherine Welch — Tue, 07 May 2013 17:44:36 +0000

Hi Richard. So I tapped into a website called Free Music Archive (freemusicarchive.org). A friend turned me on to this guy who has music on that sight, Johnny Ripper (don’t know if that’s a real name). He offered the more industrial sounding music. Then I noodled around on the site and found the piano piece to add a different texture and mood to the piece. Then what I did is take the good stuff out of Johnny Ripper’s songs (they tend to skid sideways after :45) and loop it in Adobe Audition to make a long stretch of looping music. That help?

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Geoff

Geoff — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:15:15 +0000

Thank you for this. As I am listening to this at my office, I can’t help but laugh, smile, and tear up at the stories. Excellent job, Andrew. You’re an inspiration.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Gary

Gary — Tue, 07 May 2013 11:35:45 +0000

Andrew’s Excellent Journey…….loved it!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Joni Sensel

Joni Sensel — Tue, 07 May 2013 04:11:05 +0000

It’s noted above under one of the photos: hózhó

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Joni Sensel

Joni Sensel — Tue, 07 May 2013 04:09:42 +0000

Thanks for the tip! Just ordered that book.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Joni Sensel

Joni Sensel — Tue, 07 May 2013 04:08:41 +0000

One more long-distance walker here (though not on your scale) who loved this story to pieces. I will also be awaiting the book. FABULOUS job.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Amy

Amy — Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:55 +0000

I had a similar reaction to my own travels. Couchsurfing was a fantastic experience, I met some interesting individuals I would not have met through more typical methods of travel. I was awed by the consistent generosity and kindness of complete strangers. As a child I was warned against trusting strangers, yet I found that most people are generally decent. Age and cultural differences were rarely barriers when people were willing to share their stories and home. I loved listening to your story, its a reminder of why I travel the way I do and the profound meaning it can bring.

Best wishes,

-A recent college graduate

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Candy Coons

Candy Coons — Tue, 07 May 2013 02:37:23 +0000

Andrew, this was a great thing you did, thank you for doing it and thank you for sharing it. It is my dream to walk across america, so thanks for the inspiration.
Candy

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Danny

Danny — Mon, 06 May 2013 23:58:59 +0000

not to steal any thunder, but I think this man http://www.planetwalker.org/ deserves credit for blazing this trail in total silence — and earning a PhD along the way. Read more here http://nelson.wisc.edu/news/news-details.php?e=1141

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by J T

J T — Mon, 06 May 2013 19:23:28 +0000

Fantastic story! Evokes so many emotions. Love how your story shows the humanity in all of us though we internally stifle it through ignorance and intolerance. Kudos to your bravery on setting out on such an expedition!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by tschantz

tschantz — Mon, 06 May 2013 18:48:00 +0000

Beautiful. So much depth here, and hope. We all have stories and I love how respectful you were of each person. Thank you for sharing their paths and your own. I’ve listened to this 2x already this morning and will keep it bookmarked.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Amy

Amy — Mon, 06 May 2013 18:27:32 +0000

Hey Just listened to your story on This American Life, wonderful.
I spent some time traveling alone across the US in a Volkswagen Beetle. Your story reminded me of the courage that took and the fear and anxiety I had. I loved the meaningful conversations you had with strangers and your vulnerability. Listening I heard you face your fears and come out stronger from the process. Thank you for sharing it!
It is an amazing journey, this living, and I am grateful for the wisdom I acquire in just being present.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by fweetieb

fweetieb — Mon, 06 May 2013 18:18:02 +0000

This story was lovely and interesting and thought-provoking. Can’t wait to read the book. Hoping for more photos…

Comment on An Open Letter to a Fussy Woman at a Toll Booth by Whitney Jones

Whitney Jones — Mon, 06 May 2013 18:14:10 +0000

Hilarious & delightful! The madcap music throughout is a perfect touch.
Laughed aloud, indeed I did!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Alex St. Jean

Alex St. Jean — Mon, 06 May 2013 16:20:43 +0000

Does anyone remember know what the word was the meant “you are balanced…living your life in the way you’re supposed to be living it.” It’s around 26:10 in the This american life podcast. The guy says it is the goal that all navajo people strive for.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by michelle simona

michelle simona — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:30:49 +0000

Dear Andrew,

I loved listening to this story. I spent two weeks hiking alone through the desert in Israel, and I feel like so many of the revelations you describe about being alone in a vast and powerful landscape are fou for familiar and meaningful to me. Thank you for the radio-story. It was a joy to listen to and I’ll look forward to the next one.

:]
M

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by David Avery

David Avery — Mon, 06 May 2013 11:22:34 +0000

Andrew this was an amazing piece! With my recent fight (and victory) with cancer this was something that I enjoyed listening to, I look forward to the publication of a book and hopefully get a signed copy from you God bless and thanks again for the inspiration!

Comment on NEW SHOW: “Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man” Andrew Forsthoefel by bina venkatesan

bina venkatesan — Mon, 06 May 2013 06:49:13 +0000

Excellent excellent thought provoking program – couldn’t understand why I kept getting teary eyed. Recently I met my niece after aeons – around 23 – and she is learning to play a mandolin and is traveling all across California living in the strangest of places, frowned upon by her parents – but I think this is the best way to connect with people – sharing bread and telling a story. Thank you Ira – thank you Jay Allison

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Corey Holly

Corey Holly — Sun, 05 May 2013 23:52:14 +0000

Thanks for sharing your experience, strength, and compassion, Andrew. Thanks so much.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Dave Kosliw

Dave Kosliw — Sun, 05 May 2013 23:33:29 +0000

Heard you very moving story on TAL. Couldn’t wait to come here and hear more. Wanna share it as widely as I can thank you.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Patricia A. Salazar

Patricia A. Salazar — Sun, 05 May 2013 23:22:01 +0000

Back in the 70′s I did a lot of hitchhiking aah, those were good times and lucky for me I came across a lot of good people. In fact thats how I met my husband LOL!,

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by mabelsaltytoes

mabelsaltytoes — Sun, 05 May 2013 21:12:44 +0000

This was WONDERFUL! I was moved to tear, laughter, joy, fear, exhaltation by this EPIC journey of a wonderful young man. I have sent the link on to my grandkids who are just entering adulthood . THANK you ever so much for all the effort it took to create this,I look forward to his book!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Luanne Baker

Luanne Baker — Sun, 05 May 2013 17:39:40 +0000

I heard Andrew’s road story yesterday, and was thrilled to hear it again today! If I could purchase this audio, I would order at least 5! Thank-you, Andrew for your courage, vulnerability, and strength! You helped me realize it’s all a journey, and we all just have to stay awake, have courage, and keep walking no matter our age.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Nathan from Nashville

Nathan from Nashville — Sun, 05 May 2013 17:26:42 +0000

I found the quote I wanted. “I understand now that politics, customs, histories, are no more, no less, than direct aspects of human temperment. It is a small understanding.” – Paula Fox, Granta 84

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Nathan from Nashville

Nathan from Nashville — Sun, 05 May 2013 17:07:32 +0000

I’m forty now, and I’ve invested some good energy in my life traveling and getting to know people on the ground level. I grew up in Tennessee. At 18 I worked as a night janitor in an Alaskan tourist lodge, then in a restaurant, then I hitchhiked across New Zealand for 3 months. I’m a sociologist now and spend too much time in front of a computer, writing theoretical articles about how people in organizations work. As I was saying in a presentation last week to my peers, we have to remember the *human* level at all times, even if we’re thinking about big politics and big movements of society. If we forget the human level, we participate in helping make our society inhumane. I was heartened to hear so much in this story. Josh Terziu’s words: “Everyone has something divine to share. And you gotta be listening for it.” And a previous commenter who said “we’ve got to keep the perspective on the micro, not the macro.” I think we have to do both. But if it’s going to be one, it’s got to be micro. That’s where the human soul is. — I just rooted around in my books for 10 minutes looking for a quote, but I didn’t find it. I’ll paraphrase. An American journalist was in Poland the first winter after WWII. The cities were destroyed. She saw a lot of things. She traveled around other parts of Europe, writing. And her insight was this: ~”Human institutions are just human nature on a large projection.” For all of the justifications that are made about science, war, and policy, I realized that this is true. Who we are to each other person to person creates the society and world that we all live in. Bless you for this piece.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Teru Langsdale

Teru Langsdale — Sun, 05 May 2013 16:35:11 +0000

I loved loved loved the piece. Real people’s stories are so much more interesting than fiction. I enjoyed hearing from all those folks along the way and in different parts of the country. Sounds like you learned alot. You are very brave to have taken on such an endeavor..I applaud you! Nice piece fo journalism too; I think you have a future in it. I agree that the reducing of content, and picking and choosing what to leave in or take out, is always most challenging…. but once compete, yields a much deeper product in the end. Good job!!

Comment on An Open Letter to a Fussy Woman at a Toll Booth by Leslie

Leslie — Sun, 05 May 2013 15:38:46 +0000

Hi Donald, I have to confess that, although I don’t drive a late model car or wear $400 suits, (my car is 27 years old and my work outfit is old jeans and a T-shirt), I have at times approached the insensitivity of the lady you describe. It happens from time to time when I’m having a really bad day and feel oppressed by bureaucratic bullshit. I truly regret taking out my emotions on the poor slob who is helping me in whatever capacity. At the same time, I have run into some truly unconscionable bureaucracy here and there. Like the time the hospital refused to contact the other out of network hospital to get my $1,000 ambulance ride paid for; and the out of network hospital refused to contact the in network hospital. Instead, they insisted that I pay, even though I was not responsible for payment. Neither party would contact the other, but they would, I found out (after a half hour of calling back and forth between them), remain on the line if I would conference them in on a 3-way call. (Thank God my work phone had 3-way calling.) This is the kind of stuff that makes me pull my hair out. Ever since, I have had a low tolerance for this sort of stupidity and it makes me furious. So, based on my own bad experiences, there’s a teensy part of me that can understand such outrage, even though I know it’s not the fault of the poor ticket taker or whoever might be on the receiving end. My apologies to your coworker and anybody else who may have been the recipient of what appears to be this lady’s and my unreasonable anger.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man | Enjoy The Walk

Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man | Enjoy The Walk — Sun, 05 May 2013 15:33:59 +0000

[...] Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man [...]

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Andrew Robertson

Andrew Robertson — Sun, 05 May 2013 12:13:18 +0000

Heard this yesterday on This American Life. Possibly the best show I ever heard. Powerful.

Comment on SoundCloud & Audioboo by rani

rani — Sun, 05 May 2013 08:54:04 +0000

in a current buzz of ever-progressive audio/video tech softwares,SoundCloud seems to be the most promosing application solely designed for audio music lovers.

though both soundclad and audioboo boasts several advantages,both possess few shortcomings such as storage capacity and complexity of structure respectively.
if chosen wisely,keeping the requirements of audio in mind,both applications can be of excellent use.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Guido

Guido — Sun, 05 May 2013 08:27:39 +0000

I’m from Germany and like to listen to NPR here and then. Yesterday, I listened to your story on KERA and it really moved me. How you heard about so many personal experiences and insightful thoughts on life from people who were complete strangers to you, felt so authentic and uplifting. Your story is just full of life. Thank you for letting us in on this beautiful piece of the world.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by David Olson

David Olson — Sun, 05 May 2013 06:21:16 +0000

I am a walking man with a recent stunning job loss also; my 23rd year a few decades ago, thanks for reminding us of our lives stories’ value, you told this part of yours beautifully, brought many connections into a positive focus; amidst the many & goofy difficulties at hand, your walk and its exposition inspires!

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Radio shows and balloons | Sonya's Blog

Radio shows and balloons | Sonya's Blog — Sun, 05 May 2013 02:37:18 +0000

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Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Marv Wilkenfeld

Marv Wilkenfeld — Sun, 05 May 2013 02:02:54 +0000

Thanks for bringing me along into your adventure. I’m never going to walk from Boston to L.A. in this lifetime but one of the marvelous things about radio has been for me (I’m 77 y/o) is the amazing fantasies that I was able to experience from the Lone Ranger serials in the 1940′s to the journeys I often take listening to programs like yours, Radio Lab, The Moth and a whole new variety of personal story telling. The imagination is so much more powerful than any CGI screen image for a truly personal experience.

Comment on Walking Across America: Advice for a Young Man by Shannon

Shannon — Sun, 05 May 2013 00:38:42 +0000

Listened today with longing to be there . . . again. . . . spent a year on the open road in a VW van with a new husband; no work and no prospects at the end. That was 13 years ago and we STILL evoke the adventure in some context everyday. Would give anything to do it again. Life is short. The world is vast. Adventure awaits you . . . walk/travel/experience and we will follow!