My new years resolution is to make an infographic on every This American Life ever made. The idea is to expand and add context to the stories and information contained in the shows. Basically, anything I am curious about while listening to the pieces.

This will probably be really interesting. (As if something TAL related could be anything else.)

While I might get a few to listen if I mention Joss Whedon sings a tune in this episode, act one and three is the real deal and things you should listen to.

The first is from Mike Birbiglia and how he was in a hit-and-run-accident with a drunk driver. It is really funny but ends with an awesome and beautiful realization from his part.

The third act is Dan Savage and how he struggles with faith. Which is not easy when you’re a lapsed Catholic. He’s drawn to it but don’t know why. It’s also the story of how his mother got sick and it is poignant and painful and you can hear him choke up at times.

I’d love to be able to write and tell stories like this. Of course, I’m not even close but dreams shouldn’t be in reach easily — you should grow into them and not out of them. The struggle makes it worthwhile — I think, I hope. Oh God, don’t let me be wrong about this. It’s hard to get people to listen to This American Life though, so I’ll make a deal. If you don’t listen I shall ignore you for a long time. Ok?