Magnificent Jerk

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this podcast. The title lured me in and I was hooked by the tagline “a true story about a fake story of a real life”. The story of Galen, artfully told and narrated by his niece, is both intriguing and tragic. The niece does a wonderful job of sharing facts, some very shocking, but in a manner of respect. In some ways, she honors his legacy. Although a majority of the stories are raw and troubling, the niece closes her reporting in a beautiful and loving way. I think Galen would be proud of her endeavor.

I never expected to be in tears so much in the last episode, but it’s such a beautiful story!! It’s an interesting listen that pulls you back episode after episode. And the end just is EVERYTHING!!!

Honestly, I just wanted to listen to something while walking the dogs. First episode was all over the place since I had no idea what I started…but I kept listening. After episode 2 I was hooked. What an incredible story of a man’s life, insight to cultural challenges and life on the US. Not sure what I expected but sure didn’t expect to be crying, laughing, and rooting for a a man, family, and story as I did in this. Well done.

As an “ABC” (first time hearing this term!) mixed race person, I really could relate to the culture and how it fit into larger American life. Of course my life was spared the felonies and murder, but the addiction, emotional distance, death, and family dynamics were so familiar. Maya addressed so many issues that went through my own mind while listening to this. That thoroughness was great to experience. Look forward to future projects!