This week, 7 Minute Stories transforms into a courtroom drama—well, sort of. In this courtroom-style story, Aaron Calafato takes on the role of defense attorney, arguing not against cynicism but for hope. As the prosecution condemns Hallmark movies as “brain rot,” Aaron makes a case for why these small-town stories, full of clichés and Christmas lights, might be exactly what our overstimulated culture needs. A clever, heartfelt reflection on repetition, ritual, and why the simplest stories can still teach us the most about being human.

📻 If you like 7MS, make sure you follow ⁠⁠⁠Night Stories LIVE! ⁠⁠⁠— Aaron’s late-night storytelling show where he shares new stories and talks with special guests in real time. Streamed on its⁠⁠⁠⁠ new YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠, these nostalgic, radio-style sessions go live every Thursday at 9:30PM EST and roll deep into the night.

Story created & performed by: Aaron Calafato

Senior Audio Engineer:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ken Wendt ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional vocals: Cori Calafato

Artist in Residence: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pete Whitehead ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Original Theme Music: thomas j. duke

Additional Soundscape Design:⁠⁠ ⁠Isaac Gehring & Story Sounds Media LLC ⁠⁠⁠

Special Thanks:

Rob Montague Jr

Kyle McCarthy

Dania Khalife

*Additional sounds on cleared list and used with paid license via artlist.io