7 Minute Stories w/ Aaron Calafato

In this nostalgic episode, Aaron reflects on being in a high school band in the nineties, a time when demo tapes and battle-of-the-bands showcases felt like the only shot at stardom. He shares the story of Spice, his high school’s annual talent show, and how it became a beacon of hope for a group of teenage dreamers. *We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclus...

On this episode of Sunday Leftovers we examine the question: What does it mean to love someone who isn’t perfect? In this deeply personal story written, recorded and submitted from 7MS listener and aspiring writer Chad Baxter, we journey through a childhood filled with tender moments and lessons passed from father to son. But as Chad grows older, his relationship with his dad becomes complicated b...

During 72 hours of Arctic cold, Aaron and his family hunker down, rediscovering the magic of snow days through games, creativity, and a bread-making obsession. What they find is a discovery of something many of us know but have forgotten... *We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclusively for 7MS listeners who sign up for our quarterly newsletter. Join the wai...

What began as a way for Aaron Calafato to pass the time outside a crowded restaurant turned into an unexpected lesson in humanity. In this episode, he reflects on the act of opening doors, the complexities of human interaction, and what it truly means to connect with others. *We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclusively for 7MS listeners who sign up for our...

A lot can happen in 7 minutes… and luckily, that’s how long it takes me to tell a story. I’m Aaron Calafato, and on this podcast, I’ll take you on crazy roller-coaster rides through my very normal yet very complicated life using my extemporaneous storytelling style. Each episode will help you connect with your own cherished memories. And together, we’ll try to make sense of the world, all in appro...

Aaron reflects on a car accident that occurred during college and the surreal series of events that followed—from spaghetti dinners to unexpected twists. This 7 Minute Story explores resilience, forgiveness, and the small moments that linger long after. *We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclusively for 7MS listeners who sign up for our quarterly newsletter....

Experience the wonder of Christmas Eve with Aaron Calafato as he shares a 7MS Cinema Remix of his cherished childhood memories and beloved family traditions, from magical library nights to the anticipation of Santa’s arrival. Settle in as Aaron reads 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and invites you to relive the joy, hope, and magic that make this night unforgettable. Sound collaboration with Isaa...

Join Aaron Calafato as he shares the timeless Christmas story, The Man and the Birds, a tale of compassion, understanding, and the true meaning of the season. Inspired by Paul Harvey's classic retelling, this heartfelt episode will leave you reflecting on the magic of Christmas Eve and the warmth of shared traditions. *The origin and author of The Man and the Birds Christmas Story is unknown. Acco...

Do you find Christmas to be a time of joy or reflection? Inspired by a listener's heartfelt question, Aaron explores the bittersweet nature of the holiday season. Through reflections on It’s a Wonderful Life and personal anecdotes, this episode uncovers how embracing challenges can lead to renewed hope. *We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclusively for 7MS...

Have you ever heard of the movie Prancer? In this special Christmas-themed episode, Aaron takes us back to a spontaneous, late-night recording on Christmas Eve, inspired by the classic film and the timeless letter to Virginia O'Hanlon. Listen as Aaron reflects on the magic of the holidays, shares heartfelt insights, and recites one of the most moving pieces ever written about Santa Claus.  *We’re...

Aaron recounts a mysterious encounter with what seemed to be the Virgin Mary and delves into the importance of proper endings in storytelling. Using the infamous Montreal Screwjob orchestrated by Vince McMahon as an example, this episode critiques unfinished narratives and celebrates the art of delivering a satisfying conclusion. *We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, bu...

What happens when you stay at a historic bed and breakfast rumored to be haunted? Join Aaron and Cori as they navigate a mysterious house, eerie noises, and a serene yet unsettling energy that shifts their perspective. From ghostly whispers to a breakfast like no other, this story combines humor, curiosity, and heartfelt reflections on the echoes of history that linger in unexpected places. Origin...

Aaron and Cori’s honeymoon at Niagara Falls takes a surprising turn when they meet a desperate father searching for his family. From parting a line of tourists to confronting personal fears, this episode weaves two unforgettable stories of love and resilience against the backdrop of one of the world’s natural wonders. Discover how a simple boat ride turned into a journey neither would ever forget....

In this episode Aaron answers some of your questions! *If you'd like Aaron to answer your question on a future podcast, submit your questions HERE. Original Intro & Outro Music by: autopolitan We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclusively for 7MS listeners who sign up for our quarterly newsletter. Join the waitlist! https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/newslett...

At just five years old, Aaron Calafato learned an unforgettable lesson about life from a spider, his mom, and the story of Charlotte’s Web. In this episode, he shares how that moment shaped his philosophy on kindness and the legacy he’s trying to pass on to his kids. *We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclusively for 7MS listeners who sign up for our quarter...

Aaron revisits a powerful story of resilience as Juan Caminero shares his journey from an initial misdiagnosis to facing a life-altering diagnosis. Juan’s story takes us through the pain, uncertainty, and courage it took to confront his greatest fears. Join us for this compelling episode about strength and the quiet grace that emerges when life takes unexpected turns. We’re creating bonus 7MS-them...

This special 7MS Cinema edition revisits Aaron's unforgettable story of Coach T, a figure from his past whose influence—part mentor, part antagonist—paralleled the iconic rivalry between Coach Bombay & Coach Riley from The Mighty Ducks. Sound collaboration with Isaac Gehring Story created & performed by: Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Additional vocals: Cori Birce  Art: Pete White...

In this episode, Aaron dives into the age-old debate: when is it really okay to start celebrating Christmas? For some, November 1st signals the holiday season’s arrival, while others feel Thanksgiving deserves its own time to shine. Aaron shares a story that might just challenge listeners' holiday traditions—lines may be drawn, but it’s all in good spirit! We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content d...

In this special episode of 7 Minute Stories Sunday Leftovers, Thomas Ian Nicholas—star of Rookie of the Year and the American Pie movies—joins us to share his journey from iconic 90s films to a thriving music career. From memorable scenes with Mickey Rourke to his latest album and 115-show tour, Thomas dives into the highs and challenges of balancing film and music.  Special Guest: Thomas Nicholas...

In this episode, Aaron recalls the Halloween his fifth-grade classroom transformed into a haunted house nightmare. What began as a fun escape became a journey through fear, as he found himself trapped in darkness, facing more than just jump scares. We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exclusively for 7MS listeners who sign up for our quarterly newsletter. Join...

Get a taste of the stories behind the 7 Minute Stories with Sunday Leftovers—special episodes, untold tales, and the behind-the-scenes moments that bring Aaron's storytelling to life! This week: At a father-daughter dance, Aaron faces off in an unforgettable air guitar competition set to Stairway to Heaven, channeling rock legends to create a moment his daughter—and the crowd—will never forget. So...

In this episode, Aaron takes an unexpected turn, exploring the strange connection between Seagulls and Super Kmart parking lots. Dive into a story that blends nostalgia and the mysteries of Medina, Ohio. Follow Aaron on Threads

Aaron and his wife, Cori, stood under the midnight sky when they witnessed something unforgettable. Was it a UFO? A rogue meteor? Or something even stranger? In this episode, Aaron unravels the mystery of that night, diving into the possibility of life beyond Earth, blending cosmic curiosity with a deep pursuit of truth. We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content delivered to your inbox, but only exc...

Recorded live at Keller Cafe in Medina, Ohio, this episode of 7 Minute Stories dives into the nostalgic world of mispronunciations. Join Aaron and Cori Calafato as they share humorous stories about IKEA and Tupperware & the common (and often hilarious) ways they've both mispronounced things wrong their entire life. Original Intro & Outro Music by: autopolitan We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed conten...

When Aaron’s wife, Cori, slipped into a vintage dress, he had no idea it would turn their laid-back Saturday at the farmer’s market into something unforgettable. From unexpected compliments to a stranger’s tear-filled story, this episode takes you on a journey of how one dress became a doorway to the past—connecting them to memories they never knew existed. We’re creating bonus 7MS-themed content...