The Moth Podcast Archive | You've Got A Deal: Denise Bledsoe Slaughter & Bill Robinson

In the grand theater of life, every moment is an opportunity to negotiate, to strike a deal, to barter, to borrow, or even to beg if need be. This is the essence of existence, a series of compromises that lead us through this beautiful chaos. Join me as we dive into some compelling stories about the art of striking a deal, where the stakes are high, the personalities are vibrant, and the outcomes are nothing short of extraordinary.

The Power of Borrowing and Begging

Denise Bledsoe Slaughter, a seasoned storyteller, takes us on a journey through her grad school days at Brown University, a time when survival meant striking deals of a different kind. Imagine a cold winter in Providence, Rhode Island, and a desperate need for an oil delivery. Denise, responsible for her younger brother, finds herself in a tight spot. Money is scarce, and the family isn't exactly rolling in riches.

In her quest for help, she reaches out to family members, but they can't spare a dime. It's Pearl Wolf, her Jewish mother at Brown University, who comes to her rescue. Pearl's support goes beyond the financial; it's a testament to the importance of having people in our lives who stand by us when the chill of life seeps in. Denise's witty storytelling takes us on this emotional rollercoaster of hardship, resilience, and the kindness of a friend.

The twist in the story? Denise offers to pay back the borrowed money, but Pearl doesn't want dollars. She wants a little refrigerator. And that's how Denise's introduction to bartering unfolds. The lesson here is clear – life often deals us unexpected cards, and it's the people who step up when we need them the most who leave a lasting impact. We strike deals not just with money but with kindness, trust, and gratitude.

The New Yorker Way of Doing Business

Bill Robinson, another master storyteller, transports us to the bustling streets of New York City in the early '90s. Bill, a polite Midwesterner, finds himself in the heart of Brooklyn, trying to make a business deal. The Brooklyn he encounters is far from the trendy, artisan-filled borough we know today. It's a place of chaos, contractors, and no-nonsense customer service.

Bill's story unfolds in a warehouse where customers are brash and straightforward, and they know what they want. Bill, as a sales manager for a plumbing and heating valve company, has to navigate this world of hard-nosed buyers. What ensues is a classic New Yorker exchange, complete with loud voices, insults, and a touch of intimidation.

The climax of the story arrives when Bill meets the boss, Warren, a man who knows how to make a point. What seems like a fierce confrontation takes an unexpected turn when Bill refuses to compromise on price but manages to win respect. The encounter ends with an invitation to be an "honorary New Yorker." In this tale of business brinksmanship, Bill shows us that sometimes, holding your ground and respecting yourself can lead to fruitful deals.

The Takeaway

Denise and Bill's stories share a common thread - the art of striking a deal goes beyond mere transactions. It's about relationships, trust, and understanding. Whether you're negotiating for your survival or doing business in the concrete jungle of New York, the human touch and the ability to connect with people on a deeper level often make all the difference.

In this world where we constantly navigate the currents of compromise, let's remember that it's not always about getting the best deal; it's about finding a balance that leaves everyone satisfied. Sometimes, it's about offering more than just money, and other times, it's about standing your ground with grace. So, embrace the art of striking a deal in your life, and who knows, you might just become an honorary New Yorker, too.