Ryan Malco, Independence

The themes of Odyssey shows are always open to broad interpretation, and Ryan Malco's story from the 2015 Independence show was a unique take on the idea. In explaining his religious views (or more accurately, lack thereof), Ryan tells the tale of what was, for at least a few seconds, his own death, and the freedom he derives from his first-hand knowledge that there is nothing whatsoever beyond the veil. From Ryan's Odyssey bio: Ryan Malco is a stand-up comedian and bartender who hosts a weekly comedy show at O'Malley's called "Pale Blue. Comedy" and coproduces a political comedy show on the last Sunday of every month at Skybar called "Laughing Liberally." He is also a regular on the The Switch Comedy Show, has opened for Romo Tonight Live, won the Pima Community College's first Story Slam, and recently competed in a Moth Story Slam in New York City earlier in March of this year. He currently lives in Tucson and is working towards graduating college and apologizing for his early 20s. This episode was performed and recorded in front of a live audience at The Screening Room in Tucson, AZ, on July 2nd, 2015, and was curated by Drew Cronyn. For more information about Odyssey Storytelling, please visit www.odysseystorytelling.com