Michelle Jalowski

Welcome to The Moth.

I'm Michelle Jalowski.

It's that time of year when it feels like everyone is talking about football.

And whether you're a diehard fan or you don't know the difference between a tush-push and a flea flicker, and yes, those are both real football phrases, the stories around the game are often just as fascinating and exciting as the game itself.

On this episode, two stories related to football that aren't about the game of football.

We're talking halftime shows, big game pageantry, and puppy bowls.

First up is Eliana Smith, who told this at a Philadelphia Grand Slam where the theme was making waves.

Here's Eliana, live at the Moth.

That was Eliana Smith.

Eliana is an artist and animal lover living in Philadelphia, often found traipsing around the city with her little dog, her 55th foster dog, and only foster fail.

Eliana told us that she still doesn't appreciate her rescinded invitation to the Puppy Bowl, but adores the fact that even eight years later, Juniper will still go wild when she sees Eliana and her family.

Also, if you're wondering, yes, Eliana did send us some very cute photos of her foster puppies.

To see those, go to our website, themoth.org slash extras.

Up next, we revisit one of my absolute favorite halftime shows.

Back in a moment.

Welcome back.

Our next story is from Alex Hying, who told this at a San Francisco Story Slam where the theme was Love Hurts.

Here's Alex, live at The Moth.

That was Alex Hying.

Alex is a software designer who loves his partner, his dog, and the beautiful city of Los Angeles.