This week, stories about the things we sometimes need to do to get a decent bite to eat.
Table Diving by Patrick Mckenzie
In our first story, Patrick explores the odd temptation and social taboo of “table-diving”—taking leftover food from strangers’ plates. Through his inner thoughts and expert interviews, the episode delves into themes of etiquette, hygiene, and practicality behind the peculiar act of table-diving.
To take or not to take—would you dare snatch that chip? Don’t worry, human pigeon, your secret’s safe with us.
Produced by Patrick McKenzie with Supervising Production by Mark Yin.
Big Rat by Miles Mazzocato
In the next story, Miles tells a story of confronting a community of rats: a symbol of the sacrifices needed for survival. As one weighs the cost of economic stability against the value of joy, the harsh reality of their choices becomes painfully clear.
When the pasta is cold, wet, and rosemary can’t fix it, maybe it’s time to question if survival alone is worth the taste.
Find more of Miles’ work on instagram. This story was originally performed at Read To Me, where stories are shared by illustrators and comics. The voice of the Big Rat was Chloe Spanos.
Around the back by Danielle O’Neal, Inger Kviseth, Doreen Lee and Christina Lu
In our third story, Charlie, a performer, shares his weekly adventures of dumpster diving with his partner, Jenny, uncovering treasures like Dutch chocolates and olive oil. Highlighting systemic inefficiencies and hypocrisy of supermarket chains, the story exposes the paradox of food abundance and waste in a world facing hunger.
Dumpster dive, gourmet finds; a treasure hunt worth a try.